The current Firehouse #1 is deemed inadequate for several reasons. Firstly, it lacks sufficiently sized apparatus bays to accommodate modern fire apparatus, limiting the types of vehicles we can purchase and hindering our ability to effectively serve the community.
Additionally, there is no designated space for the storage and cleaning of personal protective gear, such as fire turnouts, boots, and gloves, which is essential for ensuring the safety of our firefighters.
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Moreover, the station was originally designed for a traditional volunteer fire department model, where firefighters would only respond to calls as they came in. Today, our firefighters work a structured shift of 48 hours, but the station does not provide proper sleeping quarters. Instead, they are forced to use a makeshift dormitory, which is not suitable for mixed-gender crews.
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The existing electrical system is outdated and cannot support modern equipment, such as advanced lighting, power outlets, computers, and appliances. The plumbing system is also in need of significant upgrades.
Furthermore, the station does not fully comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and current seismic and building codes. Given the design, materials, and condition of these systems, simple modernization or retrofitting is not a viable option.
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The current location of Firehouse #1, situated within 100 feet of train tracks, presents significant safety hazards. The close proximity to active rail lines increases the risk of emergency situations, especially in the event of a train derailment or hazardous materials incident. This could endanger both Firefighters and the community, as use of the firehouse in the event of a nearby emergency could be compromised.
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Proposition F is crucial for addressing these inadequacies by providing the necessary funding to build a new fire station that meets the needs of a modern fire department, ensuring that our firefighters can operate safely and efficiently while serving our community for years to come.