Primary Department: Fire Marshal
Primary Department Head/Elected Official: Laurie L. Christensen, Fire Marshal
Secondary Department: Choose an item.
Secondary Department Head/Elected Official:
Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Position
Project ID (if applicable): N/A
Vendor/Entity Legal Name (if applicable): N/A
MWBE Contracted Goal (if applicable): N/A
MWBE Current Participation (if applicable): N/A
Justification for 0% MWBE Participation Goal: N/A - Goal not applicable to request
Grant Indirect Costs Rate (if applicable): N/A
Justification for 0% Grant Indirect Costs Rate (if applicable): N/A - Not a grant item
Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
title
Request for approval of fourteen (14) positions, effective May 16, 2026, and direct the Office of Management and Budget Office, (OMB), to transfer OMB-managed secondary fire code funds in the amount of $5,933,104 to support fire & life safety inspections in unincorporated Harris County.
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Background and Discussion:
The Harris County Fire Marshal's Office (HCFMO) is requesting authorization to create fourteen (14) new positions to enhance fire and life safety inspections within unincorporated Harris County. This expansion is designed to address critical legislative mandates, including HB 3687 regarding Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and HB 33 concerning school safety. The additional staffing will ensure continuous compliance with the adopted Fire Code across high-priority occupancies such as schools, boarding homes, and hotels.
Furthermore, these positions will provide essential support for special events, bars, and taverns, while bolstering logistical and GIS mapping capabilities. These enhancements are vital for the safety and security planning of upcoming large-scale international events, including FIFA 2026. To meet these operational demands, the new staffing model will include weekend scheduling and increased availability.
Fiscal Impact and Funding
The propo...
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