DATE:
August 26, 2025
11
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT
Title
ADOPT A RESOLUTION ENTITLED "REQUEST TO THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEES IN THE STATE LEGISLATURE TO TAKE ACTION ON FIRE APPARATUS ANTITRUST AND MONOPOLISTIC PRACTICES" (DISTRICTS: ALL)
Body
OVERVIEW
On April 8, 2025 (20), the Board of Supervisors (Board) directed the Chief Administrative Officer, in consultation with County Counsel, to explore legal and advocacy options related to fire apparatus antitrust and monopolistic practices under state and federal law.
Over the past decade, private equity firms have bought up larger shares of fire apparatus manufacturers, creating market consolidation that has undermined competition in this space. This consolidation has driven up prices, reduced production quality, and created years-long procurement delays. These challenges threaten to undermine the region's readiness for wildfires.
Today's action would adopt a resolution entitled REQUEST TO THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEES IN THE STATE LEGISLATURE TO TAKE ACTION ON FIRE APPARATUS ANTITRUST AND MONOPOLISTIC PRACTICES. Adopting this resolution would further advocacy efforts to address concerns around availability and reliability of fire apparatuses.
RECOMMENDATION(S)
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
Adopt a Resolution entitled REQUEST TO THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEES IN THE STATE LEGISLATURE TO TAKE ACTION ON FIRE APPARATUS ANTITRUST AND MONOPOLISTIC PRACTICES
EQUITY IMPACT STATEMENT
Monopolistic practices disproportionately affect under-resourced and rural communities, where fire departments are already stretched thin. Ensuring equitable access to timely and quality fire trucks is crucial for the safety of all residents, regardless of income or location.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT STATEMENT
Modern and reliable fire trucks are essential for effective wildfire response and environmental protection. Addressing procurement delays aligns with the County's sustainability goals by enhancing resilience to climate-r...
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