Fire Commission 08/12/2026

The City of San Rafael Fire Commission meeting on August 12, 2026, focused primarily on upcoming fire department events, community engagement, and significant procurement and budget matters. Key procurement discussions included the purchase of a new fire boat being manufactured in upstate New York, expected to arrive by spring or summer 2027, funded through city allocations and proceeds from the sale of the existing boat. Additionally, the commission discussed a proposed property transfer tax measure on the November ballot, projected to generate $6 to $7.5 million, with a significant portion earmarked for staffing a third ambulance to improve emergency medical services. The fire department currently has the vehicles but lacks personnel to staff the additional ambulance. The meeting also covered the acquisition of a new fire engine costing over $900,000, with plans to maintain a fleet of frontline and reserve engines. Discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining response times amid increasing call volumes and development pressures, as well as ongoing efforts to secure grant funding and community foundation support for firefighter health and technology investments such as drones and jet skis. No formal votes were recorded in the transcript, but the commission expressed strong support for the tax measure and procurement initiatives to enhance fire and emergency services capacity.