The department first started and operated out of a residential home. The Mace, Maxwell, Turrentine, and other families scrapped together donated moneys, trucks, and parts to build and operate the fire apparatus. During this time, Aldine would flourish and prosper through the hard work and dedication of volunteers and the generosity of the community. Aldine built their first fire station on Aldine Bender in 1971 which would be expanded and renovated in 1985. In 2000, the state formed Rural Fire Protection Districts (RFPD) to aid areas with funding and equipment needs. RFPD No. 24 was formed to operate Aldine Fire Department and assist with the purchase of the departments first factory-built fire truck. By this time, the department had grown to 120 volunteers. By 2004, the state transitioned RFPDs to Emergency Service Districts (ESDs). With the development of the ESD, RFPD No. 24, now Harris County ESD No. 24, developed the statutory ability to levy taxes for fire protection funding. The Aldine Fire Department was rebranded to Aldine Fire & Rescue and contracted with ESD No. 24 for fire protection services within the District. Today, Aldine Fire & Rescue/ Harris County ESD No. 24 covers 19 square miles protecting a population of 40,000 and property valued at over $5.5 billion. The department currently consists of 38 full-time, 38 part-time, and 10 volunteer firefighters from 4 stations with 11 pieces of specialty fire and emergency services apparatus. The department is also supported by an administrative staff of 5 highly qualified professionals. In 2019, the department responded to 2661 calls for service. The board of commissioners, staff, and volunteers would like to express their deep appreciation for those who came before us and the overwhelming support received to this day from our community.
