After extensive studies, exploration of multiple options, careful planning, and thorough community engagement, the Rodeo Hercules Fire Protection District (RHFPD) Board of Directors concluded that annexation with Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD) was the best solution for ensuring a high level of fiscally sustainable fire and emergency services to the community. Following deliberations and public meetings, on July 31, 2024 the RHFPD Board approved a Resolution of Application to begin the annexation process. The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD) Board passed a substantially similar resolution on August 6, 2024.

The Resolution (No. 24-18) and the accompanying Plan for Service are comprehensive documents available on the District’s website. To save time for those unable to review the full documents, the District compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to inform the public.

Why is RHFPD pursuing annexation?

Annexation with CCCFPD offers long-term financial stability for more fire and life safety service in the Rodeo-Hercules communities than exists now, and enhanced training and safety for firefighters, all without any anticipated tax increases.

Key findings from multiple reports (AP Triton, the District’s Strategic Plan, and the Management Assessment Plan) show that RHFPD faces several challenges:

• Insufficient administrative and training support has led to compromised safety for both firefighters and civilians, increased legal and regulatory risks, limited organizational depth, and gaps in succession planning.
• RHFPD cannot meet the growing demand for service with its current personnel and equipment without relying on mutual and automatic aid from external agencies.
• Specialized services like fire investigation and rescue for specific hazards are limited, and RHFPD lacks the ability to staff large or prolonged incidents without external assistance.
• Despite moderate growth in property tax revenue, rising expenses create a forecasted structural deficit for RHFPD that annexation can solve as a financially viable solution.

What are the benefits of annexation?

• Enhanced Training and Operations: Standardization in training and operations will improve safety for both firefighters and civilians.
• Increased Response Capabilities: There will be more consistent and, in some cases, increased personnel and equipment responses to various incidents, including structure fires and technical rescues.
• Expanded Rescue Services: Additional specialized services, such as marine and water rescue, hazardous materials response, and wildland firefighting teams, will be available.
• Improved Fire Prevention and Investigation: Fire and arson investigation services will be enhanced, with full-time personnel dedicated to fire prevention and public outreach.
• Public Education Programs: CCCFPD offers educational programs in multiple languages, including juvenile fire prevention and annual safety education for schools.
• Cost Savings: Combining administrative functions will reduce redundancies and lower operational costs in human resources, insurance, finance and administration, legal services, fleet maintenance, and equipment purchases.
• New Equipment: CCCFPD has committed funding for new fire engines, including a Type 3 and Type 6 wildland engine in FY 2025-2026, and a Type 1 engine in FY 2026-2027.

Will Stations 75 and 76 remain open?

Yes, both Stations 75 and 76 will remain operational with no plans for closure. Additionally, the LAFCo process ensures that service levels will either match or exceed current levels.

What will happen to RHFPD employees?

All current full-time RHFPD personnel, except for the interim Fire Chief, will be integrated into CCCFPD if they choose to do so. There will be no layoffs.

What will happen to RHFPD's assets and liabilities?

Under California law, CCCFPD will become the successor agency, assuming all assets and liabilities of RHFPD.

What happens to the Measure O parcel tax?

The Measure O parcel tax will remain in place. Its conditions and requirements will continue unless rescinded by a vote of the local electorate. The Measure O Oversight Committee, composed of Rodeo and Hercules residents, will also remain active.

Is there a document that provides all the information considered by the two Districts in advance of the annexation? 

Yes.  It is called the “Plan for Service.”  The Plan for Services and all annexation related documents are available here.

When will the annexation take effect?

The annexation is expected to take effect on or around July 1, 2025, pending final approval by LAFCo.

Is there a protest procedure?

Yes. The process for protest is outlined under California Government Code Section 57077.3, which you can view here.