San Antonio—Fire Department Chief Valerie Frausto issued a department‑wide letter on Friday responding to a censure resolution adopted by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Local 624 at its biennial convention in Arlington. Frausto said she was “disappointed by the characterization of my leadership” and emphasized that her decisions are made with careful consideration for firefighters and the community.
Union concerns and censure vote
Delegates at the IAFF convention on Aug. 14 unanimously adopted the resolution, citing disciplinary, policy and pay grievances. The union highlighted a former firefighter who claimed he was “forced out” over a THCA prescription and raised concerns about salary increases granted to assistant and district chiefs outside normal contract negotiations. The resolution states that these issues have led to a “substantial loss of confidence” among Local 624 members regarding Chief Frausto’s leadership.
City and department response
A city spokeswoman reiterated that the censure has no formal authority and that the City Manager continues to have full confidence in Chief Frausto and her team. An SAFD spokesperson confirmed that Chief Frausto will not be giving interviews at this time.
Union perspective
IAFF Local 624 President Joe Jones explained that the censure emerged after a June membership meeting following the discharge of another member. He noted the union chose to bring the matter to the IAFF convention rather than hold a local vote to gain broader perspective. While Jones expressed personal respect for Frausto, he said the union believes she is “out of balance” and needs to refocus on looking out for firefighters and paramedics.
Chief Frausto’s background
Chief Frausto, San Antonio’s first female fire chief, was selected in October 2024 from more than 65 applicants after a nationwide search. City Manager Erik Walsh praised her résumé and confidence. Frausto joined SAFD in August 2000, serving as a firefighter, paramedic, fire marshal and member of the command staff before becoming interim deputy fire chief of administrative services.
Looking ahead
In her letter, Frausto affirmed that she does not take significant decisions lightly and will continue to act thoughtfully, fairly and in good faith, even when choices are unpopular or misunderstood. She concluded with a call for professionalism and integrity, urging the department to move forward together.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
