The Community Response Team program began providing service on November 15, 2021. This work session will provide an overview of the program since inception. (Paul Luizzi, Fire Chief; Sandra Lerma-Espinoza,Crisis Response Coordinator)

At the beginning of FY22 City Council approved one-time budget funds for the program in the amount of $102,600 which included a vehicle, radio, mobile computer terminal (MCT), and office equipment; an on-going base budget of $14,300 was established for training, medical supplies, and telecommunication equipment. The program also received ongoing funding for $244,800 which included one firefighter/paramedic, a crisis coordinator and operational costs.  Additionally, the Community Response Team program received support through donations from local businesses and churches.  For example, Christ Church of the Valley donated $700 in gift cards, Chick Fil-A donated $200 in gift cards for food, and Palm Valley Church donated medical equipment.  These donations demonstrate the collaboration between the Fire and Police departments and local resources to serve the community at large.

The Community Response Team program demonstrates the collaboration between fire and police when providing crisis response, along with behavioral health assistance to families during certain types of high stress incidents, such as, but not limited to, drownings, cardiac arrest, house fires, behavioral health emergencies, traumatic injury incidents and community paramedic services to the community.

These critical resources are important when supporting our community during emergencies.  We are pleased with the progress the team has made and feel that the program has merit and is achieving the desired results.