As the Fire Chief of the Menlo Park Fire Protection District, it is my pleasure to present to you the fiscal year 2024-25 adopted budget. I am proud of the exceptional work accomplished over this past year by our professional staff and the Fire Board. This budget represents a reasonable and practical financial plan for the new fiscal year that demonstrates good stewardship. It ensures that the District will continue to maintain extraordinary fire protection and emergency services as we safeguard our communities from all risks. It is consistent with the District’s mission statement and has been prepared with the priorities and resources necessary to accomplish the District’s goals and objectives for this fiscal year.

 

The fiscal year 2024-25 adopted budget is balanced and supports the District’s activities. The Board recently adopted two policies that are supported by the budget.  The first was an adoption of a pension funding policy to logically address our CalPERS unfunded liability by implementing a 10-year virtual fresh start method for paying down our obligation. The second was the adoption of a new fund balance reserve policy that recognizes the long-term needs of the District in the form of preparing for the projected replacement of facilities while also ensuring adequate funds for unanticipated events.

 

We would like to express our appreciation to the Town of Atherton, the City of Menlo Park, the City of East Palo Alto, and the unincorporated areas of San Mateo County that are protected by the District for their continuing support of a public safety partnership. A special note of gratitude to the Board of Directors for their support, direction, and leadership. And, thank you to the taxpaying public, our residents, and area businesses for their support, cooperation, and partnership with the District in making our communities exceptional and a safe place to play, work, and live. Finally, thank you to all District staff for their ongoing dedication and commitment to serving our communities and the District’s mission.

 

Respectfully, 

 

 

Mark Lorenzen

Fire Chief