SANTA CRUZ >> The city of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley Fire District and Central Fire District announced Thursday that they will partner to conduct a regional fire service consolidation feasibility study later this year.

“Residents rely on fire services during their most critical moments and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the highest standard of emergency care,” said Santa Cruz Fire Chief Rob Oatey in a statement. “As our communities continue to grow, fire protection services must evolve to meet their needs. This study is an important step in exploring how regional cooperation could strengthen fire response and enhance public safety.”

The fire agencies, alongside the Santa Cruz Local Agency Formation Commission or LAFCO, recently signed a memorandum of understanding to begin studying how they can better work together to share resources and improve fire services across jurisdictions.

In the coming weeks, the agencies will select a consultant to conduct the comprehensive assessment through a request for proposals process.

“Public safety is our top priority, and this study allows us to explore ways to enhance fire protection services across our region,” said Santa Cruz City Manager Matt Huffaker. “By working together, we can identify solutions that improve response times, maximize resources, and ensure long-term sustainability for our fire departments.”

According to a statement from the city of Santa Cruz, the assessment will include an analysis of each agency’s current operations, including staffing, policies, finances, facilities and equipment. The study will evaluate avenues for the agencies to share equipment and other resources while remaining separate administrative entities.

The consultant conducting the study will also weigh the pros and cons of merging the fire districts or modifying the current district boundaries to enhance fire service. Ultimately, the assessment will compare multiple consolidation approaches and provide recommendations to best increase operational efficiency across jurisdictions.

A consultant will be chosen in the coming weeks with the expectation that the assessment will begin later this year. According to the statement, the agencies will provide updates and opportunities for the public to give feedback as the study progresses.

An item to authorize the memorandum of understanding between the agencies will be considered at the Santa Cruz City Council meeting Tuesday.

To view the meeting’s agenda, visit cityofsantacruz.com.