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FIGURE 3-3: Morgan Hill and SSCCFD Fire Stations
Budget Allocation and Deployment
CAL FIRE uses a very detailed proportional allocation model to fund its operations in the two
service areas. A total of fifty-one full-time employees are assigned to field operations in the
combined areas. In addition, there are eight personnel that serve in support and command
roles (chief officers, fire prevention, training, mechanical staff, and communications) and who
are proportionately funded by both Morgan Hill and the District. There are also a number of
personnel (Fire Chief, administrative and clerical support, and some mechanical staff) who
support the City/District operations but are funded in part by the state and also through an
administrative charge that is included in both the City and District contracts.
CAL FIRE operates with a traditional fire department organizational structure which is led by the
Fire Chief, who may respond to larger incidents to provide command and scene support. The
Battalion Chief manages the day-to-day field operations, including scheduling and payroll and
personnel issues. There is a Training Chief who oversees all departmental training requirements
(fire, EMS, and specialty training). The Fire Marshal is responsible for fire prevention activities,
including code enforcement, plans reviews, and fire inspections. Operationally, CAL FIRE utilizes
two platoons and a relief squad, each led by a Battalion Chief. Each station is supervised by a
Fire Captain. Also assigned are Fire Apparatus Engineers who serve as vehicle operators and