2023-03-23 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes March 23, 2023 Page 5 Vice Chair Wolf wanted to know what items were purchased with the Sayre Foundation funds. Chief Todd explained they don't purchase anything with the Sayre Foundation funds, the foundation donates equipment. The foundation chooses what is purchased based on HFD's needs or wants, but it's up to Sayers where they want to send that money. Oftentimes, donors will want to donate something specifically. Commissioner Mattos stated he went to service his boat and he saw what he thought was Station 7's Force in Kona. The mechanic told him that boat was from Hilo, it was Waiakea's boat. The boats from Kona are brought to Hilo to get fixed, but they bring the boats from Hilo to Kona to have them re -done. The Hilo boats got the funding for repairs, while the two Kona boats are just sitting outside the Waiakea Station, covered with moss. The mechanic stated the boat is worth $180,000 and it's just sitting there. Chief Todd stated that where the boats get repaired is not within his ability to control. He further explained the challenges and processes with finance. Chief Todd stated he will make sure that the boats aren't just laying out in the sun and growing mildew. EXECUTIVE SESSION (CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC) Commissioner Henkel motioned to meet in executive session to consider complaints against employees of the fire department, where matters affecting privacy will be involved, and for the purpose of consulting with the commission's attorney on questions and issues pertaining to the commission's powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities pursuant to HRS Sections 92-5, (a)(2)(4)(6) and the Hawaii County Charter 13- 20 (b). Commissioner Nakashima seconded, with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. Executive session convened at 9:55 a.m. Motion to reconvene open session was made by Commissioner Luke, seconded by Commissioner Henkel, and it carried unanimously, open session reconvened at 10:34 a.m. Chief Todd reported that he submitted paperwork for two additional positions, a WSO V position to run the Ocean Safety Bureau and a Clerk III. In a review of the budget, they identified money from the Ocean Safety Grant that hasn't been spent. Commissioner Henkel wanted to know what the rank would be for the WSO V, Chief Todd explained it would basically be equivalent to a battalion chief. Chief Todd also reported they're looking to establish an Air OPS branch in the future and maybe create an Air OPS BC. It's highly tentative and he is unable to share any additional details. Vice Chair Wolf stated since they were speaking about personnel, she just wanted to thank counsel for always being there and Ms. Correa for all her work. She stated Ms. Correa is in charge of both the Fire and Police Commissions. She asked Chief Todd if it was always that way. She stated in her opinion, it should be one individual for each