2020-10-14 Fire Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes October 14, 2020 Page 6 New Projects and Business: They continue to work with DPW, Council, and Finance to replace the Pahala fire station roof. The new Fire -Police Dispatch Center has gone out to bid. Chief Rosario again thanked the commission for their work. He stated that he has 100% confidence in Deputy Chief Perreira to continue in the capacity of Acting Chief. He will do a phenomenal job. He knows what needs to be done. Everyone comes in with their own leadership style and priorities, but one thing is outstanding for him is that the Deputy is very grounded, grounded in family, faith, and doing what is the right thing to do. Funding is going to be really critical. Without funding there is not much they can do, but it doesn't mean they cannot try. He went on to say that the key is relationships. Chiefs Perreira and Smith have great relationship type goals. They know who to make contact with. He just wanted to let the commission know that he has no reservations with turning the helm of the Fire Department to Deputy Chief Perreira and continuing for him to work with all of them and making the department the best it can be in the upcoming difficult times. In response to an inquiry, Chief Rosario stated that the Fire Department's Medical Director is Judith Fitzgerald, a long time emergency room physician from Kona who works for the Hawaii Emergency Physician's Association. They also work with Dr. Terrence Jones who is also an ER doctor who works primarily out of North Hawaii and works on the State's side. Commissioner Henkel stated that Chief Rosario has met and exceeded his expectations for the past 10 or so years. It's a tough job with the rural character of the island and budget limitations. The Chief went through hurricanes, earthquakes, and lava flows. The lava flow in his community had no lost of life and he is amazed there were no multiple casualties. The good people working under the Chief are a reflection of his leadership. Selecting a new chief will be tough Chief Rosario stated that the decision to retire was tough. He is still young. Being a department head takes a lot out of the family. It was a significant part of his children's development. Life is short, and he wants to enjoy it. He thanked all the commissioners and said it was a privilege to serve as Chief over the last 9 years and nearly 31 years in the Fire Department. In response to Commissioner Paleka's inquiry, Chief stated that his last day will be on October 31. Commissioner Paleka stated that Rule 13 of the commission's rules comes into play when there is a retirement. Chair Yamada told Chief Rosario that he is a fully retired person, so he understands the next phase in life he is going to enter and welcomed him to retired life. He asked the commissioners for a round of applause for the Chief's performance, which they gave. CHAIR'S REPORT ON MATTERS OF INTEREST TO THE COMMISSION (None.)