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Yucaipa staff recommends one paramedic squad and one deputy; council debates costs and vehicle strategy
Summary
Staff proposed funding for one paramedic squad (vehicle, gear and staffing) and one additional deputy while excluding a requested ladder truck and a second paramedic unit; council and staff discussed used vs. new vehicle options and long-term public-safety costs.
Council members and staff spent substantial time on the proposed paramedic squad and public-safety costs.
Bob asked how the $300,000 paramedic-squad line item split between vehicle and personnel. Staff clarified the included amounts: roughly $200,000 for a used vehicle and $150,000 for gear; staffing costs for the squad were budgeted at about $1 million. Staff explained they excluded one of two requested new vehicles and instead included a used replacement as a cost-saving concession.
The fire chief said the city's front-line emergency model is paramedic-based: "Our frontline service model in this city is all paramedic," the chief said, and explained the staffing and operational rationale for the squad. Council members raised concerns that adding personnel and higher contracted-service costs will accelerate depletion of the fire fund. Staff confirmed the draft includes one additional deputy in the sheriff contract and increases in contracted services tied to sheriff and state agreements.
Council did not direct an immediate change but asked staff to analyze alternatives (leasing vs. purchasing, delaying equipment purchases, or using grants) and to return with more detail as part of the full budget book.
