NY S05339

Requires the Fire Department Commissioner to submit a written request with supporting documentation before permanently closing any firehouse or permanently removing or relocating any fire fighting unit (defined as closure exceeding six months).

Environmental impact statement must accompany the written request and address current and projected response times, resource allocation and staffing levels, and distance of other nearby firehouses or fire fighting units in the affected area.

Proposed closures are subject to consecutive 30-day review periods by affected community boards and borough presidents before City Council review.

City Council approval requires a simple majority vote if any affected community board or borough president supports the proposal, or a two-thirds majority vote if all affected boards and presidents oppose it.

If closure does not occur within four months of approval, the Commissioner must submit another written request with supporting documentation, with the four-month period tolled during any restraining order or injunction prohibiting the closure.