June 26, 2023 -- Mayor Sylvester Turner today is highlighting the robust investment the City of Houston has made in the Houston Fire Department through equipment acquisition, funding, and personnel during his administration. Despite numerous court decisions on lawsuits filed by the fire union, including the Texas Supreme Court’s most recent ruling in favor of the City of Houston against pay parity, this administration has remained steadfast in its support of the brave men and women of the Houston Fire Department.
HFD Chief Sam Pena recently shared a detailed report with the mayor and members of the Houston City Council that provides a high-level overview of over $155 million in investments for the HFD from FY2017 through FY2023. Mayor Turner and City Council have approved $16.3 million for fire trucks, aerial trucks, and utility vehicles, plus another $3.8 Million for tools and personal protective equipment in FY24.
"Public safety and protecting all Houstonians have remained a priority during my administration in the past 7 1/2 years. The City has invested in equipment and budgeted additional cadet classes for FY 24 to enhance HFD's response capabilities. Whether we are replacing aging equipment for fire and rescue or providing new high-water rescue apparatus, I do not want the public to overlook our commitment and the taxpayers' investment in building a highly -skilled and well-equipped department," said Mayor Turner.
To: Mayor and City Council
From Houston Fire Chief Sam Pena
The past seven years have been pivotal for the City of Houston and the Houston Fire Department (HFD). Despite a global pandemic and several weather-related disasters, the last few years are a story of how the city confronted a series of unprecedented challenges and, with resolve and ingenuity, rose to meet each of them. The following represents a list of accomplishments and investments in the HFD that have enabled us to protect our residents and firefighters.
As Fire Chief, it is important for me to maintain the trust bestowed upon us and to fulfill the promise to our community. Through responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars and sound planning, we have aimed to make good on those promises. The department’s priorities have been focused on improving the reliability of our response fleet and resources; updating emergency response guidelines and deployment models; certification and continuing education training; and investing in essential public and firefighter health and safety resources. With support from Mayor Sylvester Turner, City Council, and Houston taxpayers, the HFD has significantly progressed in meeting the stated priorities. This report will highlight our progress and provide information on the department’s effort to improve service to our community and employees continually.
The following is a high-level overview of over $155 Million in investments for the HFD from FY2017 through FY2023. Countless minor investments are not highlighted here, but they are no less significant and can be quantified by referencing purchase orders approved through council action over the last seven years. The work ahead is vital, and I look forward to building on the momentum we have created. Please do not hesitate to ask if you need additional information or have any questions.
Fire Department Budget
Grants / Donations (2017 -2023)
Personnel
Cadet Hiring
Department Awards
Personnel Health and Safety
Operational Investments
Apparatus/Equipment
Apparatus/Equipment cont.
Personal Protective, Safety, and Accountability Equipment
Health and Safety – Building/Infrastructure Improvements