Since 1936, firefighters in San Benito have served with pride, beginning as a volunteer department formed by local citizens to protect a growing community. By the 1990s, as the city neared 20,000 residents, the department transitioned to a full-time, professional fire service to meet increasing demands.

To support these career firefighters and their families, the San Benito Firemen Relief & Retirement Fund was established on January 1, 1990, under the Texas Local Fire Fighters’ Retirement Act (TLFFRA).

Today, the Fund provides financial security for 26 active firefighters and emergency medical technicians, as well as nine retired members or their beneficiaries. As a defined benefit plan, it is funded by pretax contributions from both members and the City of San Benito, along with investment earnings.

The Fund is governed by a Board of Trustees, who oversee operations, manage policies, and work with professional service providers to ensure the Fund’s long-term stability. By state statute, the City and active members each contribute 12% of salary, with an assumed investment return of 7.5%.

The San Benito Fire Pension Fund reflects the city’s lasting commitment to those who protect it—on every call and into retirement.