SAN DIEGO - A proposal to build 14 fire stations, consolidate San Diego fire protection agencies and add firefighters in backcountry areas has been adopted unanimously by the Board of Supervisors.

The $92 million needed to build the new stations to close coverage gaps would be paid by San Diego, Oceanside and Santee, but budget woes make it unlikely that any stations will be built soon.

The study endorsed by supervisors Wednesday recommends consolidation of firefighting programs and creation of a policy group to oversee the county's 50-plus fire agencies.

The board directed the chief administrative officer to return within 120 days with an implementation plan.

The county commissioned the study after voters rejected a parcel tax in 2008 to fund a regional fire authority.

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Information from: The San Diego Union-Tribune, http://www.signonsandiego.com

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