The Scottsdale Fire Department is marking its 20th anniversary, and the City of Scottsdale has announced new investments to strengthen public safety services. The city’s budget for fiscal year 2025/26 includes several measures aimed at supporting fire and emergency medical response.
The budget was developed through a collaborative process involving the Scottsdale Fire Department, City Manager’s Office, City Treasurer, and other city departments, with direction from the Mayor and City Council.
“These investments are a direct reflection of our city’s leadership and their steadfast commitment to public safety,” said Fire Chief Tom Shannon. “Thanks to this partnership, we’re able to meet the growing demands of our community with the highest level of emergency response.”
Key elements in the plan include maintaining competitive pay for firefighters through continued support of a step plan designed to attract and retain personnel. The opening of Fire Station 612 near Scottsdale Airpark and Loop 101 will enhance coverage in an important commercial and residential area. The budget also re-establishes Engine Company 6012 at Station 601 to provide additional response capability in one of the busiest service zones.
Scottsdale plans to expand its ambulance service by adding three ambulances by year-end in response to rising emergency medical calls. Training initiatives at the Scottsdale Regional Training Center will be fully implemented for both new recruits and experienced firefighters.
Further staff development funding is allocated for specialized skills such as hazardous materials response, airport rescue firefighting, and wildland urban interface operations. A second Technical Rescue Team will be established to address call volume around McDowell Sonoran Preserve; this is supported by funds from a Parks and Preserve sales tax approved by voters in 2024.
Efforts to reduce wildfire risk in desert areas are also being strengthened. Baseline funding from the Parks and Preserve sales tax will support fire fuel mitigation projects, supplemented by grant funding when available.
City Manager Greg Caton emphasized that these investments recognize both past achievements and future needs: “We’re proud of the Scottsdale Fire Department’s legacy and their continued focus on meeting the community’s evolving needs,” Caton said. “This budget demonstrates our commitment to supporting public safety and delivering exceptional service across Scottsdale.”
Since its founding in 2005, the department has responded to over half a million calls for service as part of its mission to protect residents.
