Rebuttal to Supervisor Burgis on Fire Station 54

We appreciate Supervisor Burgis’ passion for improving fire protection services in Brentwood. On one point, we are in agreement: Brentwood absolutely needs a second fire station. However, respectfully, the proposed downtown location for Fire Station 94 is not the best long-term solution—and the facts, not fear or emotion, lead us to that conclusion.

The question before us is not whether to build a new fire station, but where to build it. The Sand Creek location was designed, approved, and cleared for this very purpose nearly two decades ago. Yet, by the Fire District’s own admission, that location was never re-evaluated during this current process. It was simply “inherited” and dismissed. That is not planning. That is inertia.

Supervisor Burgis characterizes the public voices opposing the downtown location as a “handful of commenters with zero firefighting, planning, or engineering experience.” With respect, that is both inaccurate and dismissive. I believe she is not in not in a position to evaluate the qualifications of the individuals who provided public input. Some of those who spoke are, in fact, former firefighters—including one who worked at the very station being replaced—and local professionals in planning, development, and governance. Others are veterans and longtime residents with a deep understanding of Brentwood’s infrastructure, needs, and values.

But even if none were experts, the point remains: if this truly were a sound and well-planned project, it should not be so easily dismantled by so-called “amateurs.” That it has been speaks volumes. It doesn’t discredit the public; it calls into question the planning process.

It’s also worth remembering that the 2005 study commissioned by the Fire District itself identified the Sand Creek site as the preferred location for the replacement of Station 54. Presumably, that study was completed by qualified professionals. Are their recommendations no longer valid simply because they no longer align with the current narrative?

At the core of this discussion is not emotion, but due diligence. Brentwood’s Planning Commission did its job—carefully evaluating the project against the Downtown Specific Plan and concluding that the proposed design simply does not comply. That is their responsibility, and they fulfilled it with integrity.

We urge our city’s leadership to support thoughtful planning, fiscal responsibility, and long-term solutions. The Sand Creek location still offers the best path forward—one that serves our growing population, respects the city’s vision, and honors the public trust.

Let’s not pit public safety against public accountability. Brentwood deserves both.

Respectively Submitted,

Dolores Long

American Legion Auxiliary President, Unit 202