County Supervisors OK Pilot Program To Reduce Fire Station Costs

SAN DIEGO, CA — The San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved a pilot program aimed at lowering fire station construction and maintenance costs.

According to a board Chair Terra Lawson-Remer's office, the measure is "aimed at reducing avoidable maintenance and construction expenses."

The program will involve:

-- a test to determine whether using Cal Fire's construction expertise on a small capital project can reduce costs and delays, compared to standard approaches; and

-- allowing firefighters to perform defined non-technical maintenance tasks, including replacing light fixtures and basic upkeep, as a way to reduce administrative overhead, contractor dispatches and delays.

Lawson-Remer said the program "is one small but practical example of how we*re tightening our belts in response to federal cuts."

"Before reducing services or asking taxpayers for more, we're looking carefully at how we operate and where we can save," she added. "It's not flashy, but it's the kind of work taxpayers expect when budgets are under pressure."

According to Lawson-Remer, construction costs have gone up 48% since the COVID-19 pandemic, and equipment and facility upkeep costs have also increased. Her office added that routine maintenance on older fire facilities costs the county at least $700,000 per year, "often because simple fixes require Department of General Services crews to travel hours to remote fire stations with equipment and supplies.

"While that work is necessary for major repairs, it can be inefficient for minor issues," according to Lawson-Remer. "Allowing firefighters already on site to handle basic, non-technical upkeep cuts travel time, reduces delays and saves taxpayer dollars."

According to the supervisors' Tuesday agenda, staff will "report the results of the pilot efforts to (Ebony Shelton, chief administrative officer)."

Supervisor Paloma Aguirre said during the Tuesday meeting that with fire preparedness needed year-round, "this item reflects a clear commitment to public safety, fiscal responsibility and respect for the professionals who protect our communities every single day."

Tony Mecham, County Fire unit chief, said in a statement that he and his colleagues value Lawson-Remer's efforts to "ensure we build and maintain the fire infrastructure needed to protect San Diego County residents."

Supervisor Jim Desmond was absent on Tuesday due to illness, the board clerk said. The board approved the measure on a 4-0 vote.

— City News Service