Program Overview

The Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Management program is responsible for overseeing the operations of California Task Force 3 (CA-TF3), a local Urban Search and Rescue team that can be deployed for regional, state, and federal emergencies. The Menlo Park Fire Protection District serves as the sponsoring agency for CA-TF3, receiving both federal and state grant funding to support the team. However, these funds are insufficient to fully cover the operational costs of the task force. To bridge this gap, the program utilizes General Fund to supplement the state and federal funding, ensuring the task force remains adequately supported and available for deployments, providing a mutual benefit to both the Fire District and the broader community.

Management Oversight

The US&R Management program is led by the Battalion Chief of Operations, with day-to-day oversight delegated to the program manager. The program is to assist the CATF3 to covers general supplies, equipment purchases, contract services, and vehicle fixed asset acquisitions.  The US&R team is staffed by 3.3 full-time equivalent (FTE) personnel, all of whom are funded at various percentages through federal grants and the General Fund.

Goals and Objectives

• Foster the professional growth of team members by offering ongoing training, mentorship, and career development opportunities to enhance skills and ensure effective team performance in the US&R program.

• Ensure that staff have a safe, comfortable, and functional workspace that supports productivity and well-being, enabling them to efficiently manage their duties and responsibilities.

• Supply team members with the essential tools, equipment, and technology required to perform their tasks effectively, ensuring they have the resources to respond to emergency situations and meet program objectives.

• Develop and maintain a state-of-the-art US&R classroom environment designed to facilitate training and learning for all District programs, promoting collaboration, skill-building, and knowledge-sharing.

• Prioritize the replacement and maintenance of the aging US&R fleet, ensuring that all vehicles are reliable, operational, and equipped for rapid deployment in emergency situations.

FY 2023-24 Accomplishments

• Launched dedicated web pages for California Task Force 3 (CA-TF3) and created an intranet SharePoint site for the District Special Operations.

• Successfully closed reimbursement for multiple hurricanes, including Hurricane Ian, Ida, and Laura, totaling over $200K.

• Secured the 2023 Cooperative Agreement Grant for $1.3M and received access to the Firefighter Property Program for resource distribution.

• Filled 198 of 210 CA-TF3 positions, recruited a new Grants Manager, and completed over 4,000 hours of instructor-led training. Hosted FEMA-sanctioned training, including Canine Certification and Enhanced Operations in a Contaminated Environment (EOCE).

• Revised key policies, including the CA-TF3 Deployment Rostering and Team Member Alerting policies. Developed and implemented new procedures for the Task Force and successfully completed FEMA self-evaluations and audits.

• Purchased essential equipment such as Hurst cutters, CBRN suits, and medical supplies for the Task Force. Upgraded warehouse facilities with new roll-up doors, additional storage, and office furniture to enhance operational efficiency.

FY 2024-25 Program Initiatives

• Continue upgrading the US&R Warehouse, including HVAC enhancements to improve the classroom environment.
• Progress the 3-year plan for replacing the aging US&R fleet to ensure operational readiness.
• Maintain a positive and efficient working environment for US&R staff, prioritizing comfort and productivity.
• Continue to fund travel and registration fees for US&R staff to attend relevant conferences and training opportunities.
• Secure funding for essential program needs that cannot be covered by federal grants, ensuring the ongoing success of the US&R program.