Commission warned: downtown density, rising unit‑hour use are squeezing fire response capacity

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.

"We used to be able to get statewide over a thousand engines on the road; at this point we struggled to get 400," a chief said, describing statewide staffing constraints and the pressure of longer fire seasons. Commissioners noted downtown zoning allows vertical development that increases evacuation and suppression complexity.

Commissioners and the chief described unit‑hour utilization as a key metric: the department aims for less than 30% to preserve training, meals and rest, but reported figures of 40–50% in recent situations. High utilization, they said, reduces staffing available for structure fires and weakens the department’s "weight of attack," or ability to place adequate crews on initial responses.

The commission discussed possible remedies including impact fees that could fund facilities, apparatus and equipment (a new ladder truck can cost about $2 million) and operational changes such as increasing engine crew sizes. The chief also said staff shortages remain the primary constraint: equipment alone does not solve the need for people.

Commissioners agreed to prepare a one‑page data summary and coordinate unified messaging to present to city council or finance committees before any formal request for funding. The commission also discussed near‑term planning for a possible November tax measure to support paramedic and fire services.

The chief urged socializing these issues with current and future council members to gain support and planning clarity.