Vallejo Council Approves Funding for New Fireboat
The city moves to bolster its marine emergency response capabilities with a new specialized vessel.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in City Hall
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The Vallejo City Council has approved funding for the acquisition of a new Moose Boat M3-36 fireboat. This vessel will provide essential fire protection for the city's 18 miles of shoreline and nearby maritime assets.
Why it matters
The decision follows a March fire at the city docks that required assistance from outside agencies due to a lack of local equipment. Investing in this technology aims to ensure rapid response times for future incidents in local waters.
The city authorized the purchase of a Moose Boat M3-36 with a total cost of $1,069,576. Funding combines a $690,619 federal Port Security Grant with $500,000 sourced from Measure P tax revenues.
The players
Vallejo City Council
This is the governing body responsible for legislative decisions, budget approvals, and municipal policy for the City of Vallejo.
Moose Boat Company
Headquartered on Mare Island, this firm specializes in the manufacturing of custom aluminum patrol and response vessels.
Measure P Committee
This advisory group oversees the allocation of funds generated by the 2022 voter-approved municipal tax increase.
The details
The fire department selected the vessel after reviewing three potential manufacturer quotes. The new boat is projected to have a service lifespan of 20 years, with future maintenance costs to be absorbed into the municipal operating budget.
Timeline
Voters passed the Measure P tax increase in 2022.
A dock fire occurred along the city waterfront in March 2026.
The City Council voted to approve the project funding on October 27, 2026.
The vessel is estimated to reach completion and delivery in approximately 18 months.
Political Context
Opponents of the original Measure P proposal raised concerns regarding the broad nature of the tax increase and potential for future fiscal mismanagement. Proponents argued that such funds are essential for providing core municipal services that the city budget previously could not support.
This project utilizes Measure P funds to improve emergency response, meaning it does not necessitate an immediate additional tax hike for residents. It enhances public safety along the shoreline, potentially reducing risks to local maritime infrastructure.
The takeaway
The move demonstrates how cities utilize voter-approved revenue to address specific emergency infrastructure deficits. Residents should note that the city expects to manage the ongoing maintenance of the new vessel within its standard operating budget.
What happens next
The project requires a final vote at a future council meeting to complete the budget approval process.
Further reading
For more on local governance, visit the City Hall section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Times-Herald.
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