HOUSTON - A new report released by The Houston Fire Department suggests it needs more fire stations and ambulances.
A press conference was held Friday to discuss the findings of the year-long, $300,000 study. The report made 48 recommendations.
Mayor Sylvester Turner commended the work of everyone at the department but said the HFD operations need further study.
“I like the report’s acknowledgement of the need for more revenue for a fire department that serves a growing population,” said Turner. “I also like that the report notes just how dedicated HFD is. Our firefighters do a fantastic job. Likewise, our EMS boasts one of the highest cardiac arrest resuscitation and survival rates in the nation. However, I cannot believe there are no cost savings to be found. This is a starting point for what we need to learn more about. There will be a second, more critical review that delves deeper into HFD operations and staffing.”
The report also suggests improvements need to be made to career developments and the IT department.
It notes the City is limited in its ability to provide funding needed to pay for all of the operations.
“This report was commissioned before I got here, and I wanted to wait for its completion,” said Mayor Turner.
“There is some useful information regarding efficiencies and the need for additional sources of revenue, but the report contains no cost savings and refers to national standards that no fire department in the nation is meeting. I want another look with someone under my control.” he said.
The City Council will receive a briefing on the report during a committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday afternoon.
