2022-06-30 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes June 30, 2022 Page 4 Chair Kosaki stated in regards to the Kua Bay funding, they initially requested closer to $500,000, it was higher at that time because the initial funding included a lot of equipment needed. He asked, as an ongoing amount, if the amount is still the same or if the cost to operate the lifeguards there was lower than that. Chief Todd stated one of the issues is they're only allowed to expend on personnel costs right now. The excess money is not allowed by the state to be spent on anything but salaries. Chair Kosaki asked if they are having problems filling positions for ocean safety. Chief Todd stated that they only have a couple of vacancies. Human Resources: ✓ Fire/EMS Specialist III Stacy Domingo was promoted to Fire Captain (Emergency Communications). Fire Prevention Inspector II Royd Henderson was promoted to Fire Captain (Fire Prevention Bureau). ✓ Internal recruitments within the county include a Storekeeper (will be external), three Account Clerks, and a Clerk III. Open competitive recruitment for Fire Communication Officers. They filled the remaining three Water Safety Officer I positions. ✓ The Fire Fighter Recruit PAE is continuing and they are scheduled for July 23, 2022, at the Hilo High School track and pool. ✓ They are currently working with HR on the creation of new classifications for paramedics. This is part of Chief Honda's initiative to deal with the paramedic shortage. Chair Kosaki asked if the union was consulted regarding the new classifications. Chief Todd stated that they are still working on details, once they have a plan and it's finalized, they will be consulting with the union. Gerald Kosaki stated that in his opinion, he thinks it's a good idea to reach out to the union and get input before everything is finalized to avoid potential issues in the future. • Calls for Service: Chief Todd stated that total calls are pretty much on track this year to be just a couple percent higher than in previous years. They're seeing a return to the normal medical call volume. Updates: ✓ They have the new SCBA compressor in West Hawaii, all training has been completed and the unit has been placed in service. ✓ LEPC meeting was held on May 12, 2022. Approval granted for 6 Hazmat personnel to attend Chemical Safety Days workshops on Oahu.