Santa Fe’s Alternative Response Unit (ARU), designed to respond to calls involving social or behavioral health needs, has undergone staffing changes that have sparked concern among partner organizations. The changes, implemented January 20, involved the removal of Emergency Medical Services captains from the unit, a decision the city says will allow them to focus on other critical duties.
Shift in Staffing
Interim Fire Chief Scott Ouderkirk stated the decision to reassign the four EMS captains was based on the belief that their highly specialized medical training was better utilized for quality control of cardiac arrest calls and other high-acuity dispatches. Paramedics remain available to the ARU on an on-call basis. The fire department is currently accepting applications for three novel case manager positions.
While city officials maintain the ARU remains capable, officials from New Mexico Solutions and the Christus St. Vincent High Utilizer Group Services program (HUGS) have expressed concerns. Kate Field, director of crisis services with New Mexico Solutions, noted “immediate differences” in collaboration following the change. Sierra Logan, a caseworker with HUGS, said the removal of paramedics “hobbles their ability to collaborate effectively.”
Declining Call Volume
The staffing changes come as the ARU has experienced a decline in call volume. The unit responded to more than 1,500 calls in 2022, but that number dropped to 827 in 2025. This decrease occurred even as the city’s homeless population and Santa Fe County’s drug overdose death rates continued to rise. A 2023 report from a Community Health and Safety Task Force recommended expanding the ARU to 24/7 operations.
Mayor Michael Garcia stated the changes are aimed at “improving service delivery, protecting taxpayer investment, and ensuring that our fire and EMS professionals can continue providing exceptional care.” He added that he is “proud of the Santa Fe Fire Department for embracing innovation while keeping community safety at the center of every decision.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Alternative Response Unit?
The Alternative Response Unit responds to 911 calls regarding people who primarily need social or behavioral health services, including those experiencing homelessness, mental illness, or addiction.
What changes were made to the ARU staffing in January?
Emergency Medical Services captains were removed from the ARU team on January 20, allowing them to focus on other duties within the fire department.
Has the ARU’s call volume changed recently?
Yes, the unit’s call volume has decreased every year, declining 45% between 2022 and 2025, from more than 1,500 calls to 827 calls.
As the city navigates these changes, how might the ARU adapt to maintain its effectiveness in addressing the complex needs of Santa Fe’s community?
