The Richardson City Council meeting on July 28, 2025, focused on the city's emergency medical services (EMS) and fire department needs as part of a broader ten-year strategic plan. The discussions highlighted the current challenges faced by the EMS, which accounts for approximately 75% to 80% of the department's call volume.

The council addressed the pressing issue of ambulance availability, noting that on many days, the city runs out of ambulances before depleting fire apparatus. This situation is exacerbated during significant incidents, such as structure fires, which can temporarily remove most fire apparatus from service. The chief emphasized the need for a strategy that prioritizes EMS resources, suggesting that adding ambulances could be achieved relatively quickly—within 18 months—compared to the longer timeline required for hiring and training new personnel.

The chief proposed utilizing overtime for peak demand periods, particularly from 7 AM to 9 PM, when call volumes are highest. This approach would allow for immediate staffing increases without the long-term commitment and costs associated with hiring full-time employees. The chief noted that many firefighters already seek part-time work, making overtime an attractive option that could also contribute to their retirement benefits.

Concerns were raised about the potential backlash from removing peak demand services once implemented, as other departments have reported increased complaints when such services were discontinued. The chief reassured the council that this strategy would allow for a quick response to current demands while assessing the need for permanent staffing solutions in the future.

Additionally, the council discussed the necessity of establishing a new fire station, referred to as Station 7, to address growing call volumes and improve the city's Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating. The placement of this station is critical for both operational efficiency and meeting ISO requirements.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for enhanced EMS capabilities and the strategic planning required to address both immediate and long-term fire service demands in Richardson. The council will continue to evaluate these proposals as part of their ongoing commitment to public safety.