This fire season, Oakland Fire says its fully staffed for the first time in 20 years

The Oakland Fire Department has initiated the fire season with renewed resources, largely due to Measure MM, which levies a special property tax in the Wildfire Prevention Zone. This measure is projected to generate approximately $2. 6 million annually for 20 years, specifically allocated for vegetation management to reduce fire risks. Fire Chief Damon Covington highlighted that the department is operating at full capacity for the first time in over 20 years, following the reopening of three fire stations. While California faces a challenging fire season, Oakland has largely been spared from severe incidents.

The department has conducted inspections of more than 20,000 high-risk properties to ensure they conform to defensible space guidelines. Covington declared that residents will see increased vegetation management efforts in the coming year. The funding from Measure MM will support Oakland’s Vegetation Management Plan, aimed at minimizing fire hazards. The tax, which varies based on property type, includes exemptions for low-income and senior residents, ensuring community-wide participation in fire prevention efforts.