Commissioners press SFFD on Station 7 funding and fleet replacements; recruitment and health studies highlighted

San Francisco Fire Commission members used the March 27 meeting to press staff for more detail about station replacement funding and fleet needs while hearing updates on recruitment and health research.

Deputy Chief Shane Kailoa presented an administrative report that covered homeland security planning, an HBCU internship pilot, the fire recruitment app, and several health-and-safety studies. Kailoa described two studies led by the department's health and safety staff: a sulforaphane study and a diet study, each involving 100 participants with randomized groups. "We have 100 individuals in that study," Kailoa said of the sulforaphane trial, and he described the nutrition study as a plant-based versus meat-based diet trial.

Commissioners focused much of their questioning on Station 7, which staff said was intended as a "division house" and remains a top priority. Staff told commissioners there is not yet a finalized design for Station 7 and recommended obtaining a schematic and cost estimates from the Department of Public Works and market sources as a next step. A figure of approximately $35,000,000 was discussed as a recent reference point for similar projects; staff characterized cost escalation as a significant variable.

Fleet and equipment questions included the retired Muni medical bus. Deputy staff referenced a prior figure near $920,000 for replacement and said grant avenues (including urban area security initiative/USAA grants) and Muni collaborations were being explored to fund replacements or retrofits.

Commissioners also sought clarification on the 99-10 city EMT pipeline. Chief Nicholson explained that the program requires about 500 hours of experience and generally enrolls participants aged roughly 18–26; graduates commonly apply for firefighter positions in the department.

No formal votes were taken on Station 7 funding or fleet replacement at the meeting; commissioners directed staff to pursue schematic cost estimates and explore creative funding options, including public-private partnerships and grant opportunities.