REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: BILLY P. ALCORN, Fire Chief
Fire Department
SUBJECT
Title
***RESOLUTION - Adopt the 37th Amendment to the Annual Appropriation Resolution 2025-179 establishing appropriations in the amount of $1,158,700 for the Fire Department Drill School (Requires
Five Affirmative Votes) (Subject to Mayor's Veto)
Body
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended Council approve the 37th Amendment of the Annual Appropriation Resolution (AAR) 2025-179 establishing appropriations in the amount of $1,158,700 for FY 2026 for the Fire Department Drill School.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Fresno Fire Department had a Drill School commence on December 1, 2025 with 17 recruits. The cost of the academy, along with Personal Protective Equipment is expected not to exceed $1,158,700.
Funding sources have been identified to support the Drill School and include available fund balance from the Fresno City College Instructional Services Agreement (FCC/ISA) in the amount of $574,700, Office of Emergency Services (OES) Out-of-County funds totaling $584,000. The proposed amendment will appropriate $1,158,700 to support Drill School expenditures.
BACKGROUND
The Fresno Fire Department conducts drill schools when vacancies in the Firefighter classification result in staffing shortages, or there are anticipated shortages, which negatively impacts the staffing levels of the fire department. Maintaining adequate staffing levels is critical to ensure operational readiness, public safety, and the efficient delivery of emergency services.
The Drill School is necessary to address anticipated and existing vacancies resulting from retirements, resignations, and promotions within the Department. Without timely recruitment and training of new firefighters, staffing levels may fall below operational needs, increase overtime costs and place additional strain on existing personnel. Conducting this Drill School supports succession planning efforts and helps maintain appropriate s...
Click here for full text