Encinitas, CA, April 25, 2024 – In a proactive move to bolster fire services and enhance the safety and well-being of residents, Mayor Tony Kranz initiated a critical step towards upgrading the city's fire infrastructure. At the most recent City Council meeting on April 24, 2024, Mayor Kranz put forward a motion to direct the City Manager to investigate potential locations and associated costs for establishing an appropriate site for Fire Station 6. The motion passed unanimously, reflecting a unified commitment among the City Council to prioritize public safety and emergency response capabilities. The current temporary location for Station 6 is not owned by the City and lacks the necessary space to support a full staffing level at the station, which provides a need for a more suitable and permanent solution.
"This motion reflects our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our residents. By exploring options for a permanent location of Fire Station 6, we are taking proactive steps to strengthening our fire services and better serve our community," stated Mayor Kranz.
The Encinitas Fire Department has six fire stations strategically located in different areas of the City to provide “round-the-clock” coverage to the community. These stations house the Department's 51 fire suppression personnel, fire engines and various other emergency apparatus needed for specialized responses. The Encinitas Fire Station 6 is located in Olivenhain, the most eastern community in the city, and has two fire personnel assigned to the station per shift.
“The directive from Mayor Kranz to explore options for Station 6 underscores our shared commitment to ensuring the highest level of safety and service for our community," says City Manager Pam Antil. “City staff from various departments will collaborate seamlessly and work diligently to further elevate our emergency response capabilities."
In 2012, Fire Station 6 provided essential coverage from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., serving as a vital resource for the community during daytime hours. Recognizing the growing needs of the City at that time and the importance of round-the-clock emergency response, renovations were undertaken in 2013 to elevate the station's capabilities to a 24-hour operational model.
“The Encinitas Fire Department is fully committed to providing the highest level of service to Encinitas,” said Fire Chief Josh Gordon. “With Council's direction, we can strategically position Fire Station 6 to continue delivering exceptional service and maintain our unwavering commitment to public safety.”
City staff will return at a future City Council meeting with pertinent information and will present their findings to the City Council for further consideration.
