Essence Table Talk - Author and Poet Deborah Tarver and we chat with new Fire Chief Chris Jensen

This City of Rialto community engagement meeting held on April 7, 2026, featured two main guests: author and poet Deborah Tarver and newly appointed Fire Chief Chris Jensen. The discussion with Deborah Tarver focused on her inspirational books and poetry, emphasizing themes of self-esteem and spiritual growth, with no procurement or contracting topics addressed. The conversation with Fire Chief Jensen covered the operations and community services of the Rialto Fire Department, including fire inspections, public education, and the Fire Explorer program for youth training. Chief Jensen also discussed the department's recent community risk assessment and the need for additional staffing and resources, such as an extra ambulance, to meet growing demands. While no specific contracts or budget allocations were mentioned, the chief highlighted ongoing efforts to improve service delivery and address challenges related to population growth and industrial changes in the city.