HomeMy WebLinkAboutFire Commission 2025-09-10 Minutes
SAN RAFAEL FIRE COMMISSION MINUTES
Wednesday, September 10, 2025 @ 4:00 P.M.
Fire Station 56
650 Del Ganado Rd, CA 94903
Attendees:
David Fonkalsrud – Chair
Ken Johnson - Vice Chair
Stan Burford
John Chung
Brian Waterbury
Chief Bernard
Chief Sinnott
Thomas Wong
Meeting called to order at 4:02 pm.
1. Open Time for Public Expression
No public comments.
2. Approval of Minutes – August 13, 2025
Chair Fonkalsrud asks if there are any changes to the draft minutes. Hearing none,
Commissioner Chung made a motion to approve, seconded by Chair Fonkalsrud and
approved unanimously.
3. Fire Foundation – Verbal Update from Commissioner Donna McCusker
No report
4. 150th Anniversary Sub Committee – Verbal Update from Commissioner Chung
Commissioner Chung discussed the 9/11 Memorial, tomorrow at 0658. There is also
the PSC Open House on October 11. Police will join Fire and the time is TBD.
5. Chair and Commission Member Reports:
David Fonkalsrud – Would like the Fire Commission to be notified of large events.
Watched the press conference and thanked those that responded. Chair Fonkalsrud is
working on updating the Fire Foundation website and promoting donations to the
Foundation. There is a Foundation event at Andy’s market on October 12.
Ken Johnson – Went to both Canal fire and the most recent 5th Ave fire. A lot of
admiration for the work done by the fire fighters from all agencies that responded. Also
went to Ember stomp and purchased lunch for the crew there.
Stan Burford – No report
John Chung – Did two ride alongs this past month.
Brian Waterbury – Doing a ride along next Monday with Chief Bernard.
6. Fire Chief Report
Chief Sinnott and Chief Bernard discussed recent fires in San Rafael including 1517 5th
Ave and 516 Canal St. The drone was used in both fires and continues to be integrated
into operations. Commissioner Waterbury asked if we use thermal imaging cameras
and Chief Bernard confirmed everyone has small units on them. Fire was onsite at 516
Canal for 8 consecutive days. Every agency in Marin played some role in responding to
this fire.
Chief Bernard gives an overview of the department’s fleet. New engine 51 is due to
arrive next month. Engines now cost a million dollars. Our ambulance fleet is in good
order with Medics 55 and 56 getting ready to switch with 52 and 57 to even out the
wear.
Meeting adjourned at 5:26.