Commission warned: downtown density, rising unit‑hour use are squeezing fire response capacity
Mar 11, 2026
Mar 11, 2026
Commissioners and the chief warned that vertical housing development and longer fire seasons are increasing unit‑hour utilization (often 40–50%) and creating a personnel shortfall; they discussed impact fees, operational adjustments and a possible tax measure for paramedic service on the November ballot.
The full story
San Rafael’s fire officials told the commission that rising downtown housing density and an extended fire season have strained mutual-aid capacity and local response capability, with unit‑hour utilization frequently above target levels.
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