2022-04-13 Fire Commission Minutes

Home

Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes April 13, 2022 Page 8 might be concerns. Being an advocate for the repairs and needs is more than welcome. His goal is to be as transparent as possible, he believes transparency and consistency equals trust. Chair Kosaki stated that part of their job, as the commission is to review and evaluate the fire chief. When personnel contacts him with information, he's obligated to address it and give the chief an opportunity to explain the situation and defend himself. Chair Kosaki mentioned another issue regarding the promotion process. There was a Fire Rescue Specialist assessment, the notice stated that a 12-foot rescue board would be used during the assessment, but there was a 10-foot rescue board instead. Chair Kosaki stated that if you say something on the notice, the department should adhere to that. No grievance was filed, but it was brought to his attention. Chief Todd stated that West Hawaii is using 12-foot boards and East Hawaii is using 10-foot boards. They conducted the assessments in Hilo and West Hawaii personnel weren't used to those boards. They will work on that and in the future, they will state, "We will use a rescue board for this assessment" on future notices. Deputy Chief Moller stated that he has been tasked with revamping the promotional process. What they thought was well established past practice, is not necessarily well established. The 2 individuals are grieving to go back on the list where they were ranked or they want the entire list thrown out because the process that was followed was never consulted on. The union won't represent those individuals, but allowed them to represent themselves. He stated that it is convoluted; he had good intentions, and takes full responsibility. They are currently working on a new process for all promotions, it will be sent to the union for approval, then go to the floor for any revisions. UNFINISHED BUSINESS • Fire Commission meetings at Council Chambers: Chief Todd stated that the 2nd and 4th week are the better weeks to schedule meetings at the Council Chambers. In the future, it would be best to schedule a year in advance and choose a specific day. Chair Kosaki stated the Fire Commission needs to change its rules to allow more flexibility with scheduling and allow complaints to be submitted within 90 days, instead of 60 days. DCC Wong will come up with the language for the commission to review and vote on at the next meeting. ANNUAL EVALUATION OF FIRE CHIEF TODD KAZUO • Chair Kosaki advised the commission to review and complete the evaluation template and email it to Ms. Correa and he will compile it later. The evaluation is due in June.