Alachua County Fire Rescue
Chief William K. Northcutt
On behalf of the men and women of Alachua County Fire Rescue Department, we proudly
resubmit to you our FY 2016 – FY 2019 Strategic Plan
Fire Rescue Strategic Plan - First Edition. On the pages to follow, there are six,
well-developed and refreshed strategic initiatives representing our departmental
needs. They demonstrate the core values with which we operate, while simultaneously
embodying many environmental factors and influences. This plan continues to align
with Alachua County’s strategic priorities for public safety, financial health,
economic growth, youth development, cultural excellence, and customer service.
Each of these initiatives have been thoughtfully established to enhance the service
levels commensurate with all hazards within the jurisdiction and authority of the
Alachua County Fire Rescue as defined in the County of Alachua Charter andCodeofOrdinances.
Each initiative is the product of a risk assessment which revealed gaps, both in
departmental capabilities and in providing services to our citizens, employees,
and other stakeholders. In addition to the previous environmental scan which assessed
industry and global trends in fire, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), rescue and
homeland security services; we have revised some areas based on pilot results and
changes in our environment. Conclusively, we have successfully formulated a plan,
which accurately forecasts the needs of the department for the next three to five
years.
The Board of County Commissioners, along with the County Manager, has sincerely
embraced our Strategic Plan, championing our collective betterment in ways that
are unprecedented in the history of the county. Through their unwavering support,
we have achieved several key intended outcomes as well as some that would have seemed
inconceivable during harsh economic times such as those currently faced by many
county governments. These outcomes, or accomplishments, are a direct result of the
words, sentences, photographs, and figures included on the pages that follow.
This plan is a living, breathing instrument representing a roadmap to restoring
our department to optimum levels. Collectively, we acknowledged that the path would
not be one easily traveled, but we would set out on this journey together with a
common, relentless cause unyielding to any and all adversity or criticism. I must
admit that I erred. This plan is not a roadmap, but a flight plan. At that time,
we resolved to put our best foot forward; instead, we unbridled our eagle wings
and embraced our resurgence!