2023-05-25 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes May 25, 2023 Page 8 Chair Kosaki asked if the junior lifeguard budget would allow them to participate in travel for the State competition. Chief Todd stated he would assume so, he will find out this year. Regarding the uniform change, Chair Kosaki asked if 100% would be paid for. Chief Todd explained the moment he makes it mandatory, the union would come back and say that if it's mandatory, you must pay 100% for replacement. Chair Kosaki stated whenever there's a uniform change, you're supposed to pay 100% anyway. Chief Todd stated not necessarily and explained that he changed the uniform, but he made it so it's optional; there's a new one, but you could still have the old one. He doesn't have to pay 100% because it's not mandatory. It will be mandatory effective July 1 st and anyone who purchased prior will be paid back the 25% difference. Chair Kosaki asked about the volunteer uniforms. Chief Todd explained it will basically be the same; the brush jacket, undershirt, and brush pants. They just don't issue the uniform shirts to anyone but the captains. The safety level of their gear needs to be exactly the same as paid personnel. Chair Kosaki stated it shouldn't look the same, Chief Todd explained that their undershirts say "volunteer." Chair Kosaki stated at the last meeting, it was reported that the volunteers will be trained to use SCBAs. Chief Todd explained that they're exposed to contaminants, and need to be provided with the proper equipment and training. Regarding rescue and hazmat and the new delegation of authority, Chair Kosaki asked what he expects to come out of their meetings. Chief Todd explained that he wants them to have meetings to discuss needs, issues, etc. He wants to make sure they are properly supported, but he needs a better understanding. These meetings are more about fidelity; to understand in depth on a fiscal and on a cycle basis. Recess was called at 11:14 a.m., the meeting reconvened at 11:21 a.m. 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, to work on the chief's evaluation, 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). Vice Chair Wolf seconded, with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. Executive session convened at 11:21 a.m. Motion to reconvene open session was made by Commissioner Henkel, and seconded by Vice Chair Wolf, no discussion, and it carried unanimously, open session reconvened at 12:43 p.m.