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For several months, Harlingen city and airport officials have been deliberating over two proposals concerning the provision of aircraft rescue and firefighting services at Valley International Airport. Recently, a proposal known as Plan A has gained prominence. This plan involves hiring Pro-Tec Fire Services, a company based in Appleton, Wisconsin, recognized as North America's largest provider of such services.
Currently, the airport is considering terminating its $1.2 million agreement with the Harlingen Fire Department in favor of contracting Pro-Tec for $973,000 under a proposed five-year contract. This move has sparked opposition from the Harlingen Professional Firefighters' Association, which warns it may file a lawsuit against the city if the airport's board hires Pro-Tec. The association argues that this action could violate Civil Service law protecting firefighters' jobs.
Marv Esterly, the airport's aviation director, supports hiring Pro-Tec to save approximately $1.9 million over five years while addressing concerns about federal training violations by the fire department. Between 2017 and 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) cited three training violations within the department. Last year, Esterly self-reported "misleading" entries in training logs from two classes held in June and July.
