2023-07-27 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes July 27, 2023 Page 6 Auxiliary: ➢ Fire Communications Dispatch Center: The Fire Communication Officer I class is currently in progress with four trainees undergoing didactic and scenario -based training. External contractors were engaged to facilitate the training for new hires. Eight positions have been added with the intention to potentially hire an additional five personnel. Unfortunately, efforts to collaborate with HFFA for uniformed personnel to assist within the dispatch center have encountered multiple setbacks, leading to a temporary pause in progress. In light of this, Chief Todd recently met with DHR to explore alternative strategies concerning supervisory roles. Chief Todd estimates that achieving full staffing levels will likely take a year. To accommodate the situation, existing employees have been moved to the police department, allowing them to operate from that location. Chief Todd expressed his belief that the two dispatch centers should be unified, although previous police administrations have shown reluctance primarily due to concerns related to privacy and confidentiality. He believes that enhanced collaboration would ultimately result in improved community service. Chief Todd also highlighted the importance of co -training and fostering collaboration with the Police Department. Presently, plans are underway to develop Keaau, with approximately 20 acres set aside for this purpose, as presented in the recent future land plan presentation. The new Police and Fire station project includes the potential for a shared training center featuring multiple classrooms. ➢ Mechanic Shop: Chief Todd extended praise to Chief Chadwick for his exceptional performance in attending to matters at the mechanic shop on multiple occasions. ➢ Ordering System: The new ordering system is currently undergoing beta testing, while efforts are also being directed toward the replacement of the previous RMS system. Chief Todd expressed the need for a cloud -based RMS system and is moving forward with EPR Fireworks. This solution will enable comprehensive scheduling and tracking of all vehicle maintenance and repair tasks. ➢ Vehicle Maintenance: They are up to date with records requests and repairs and service calls were completed. Information Technology: Provided IT assistance for EMD and ProQA training. Currently engaged in replacing the projector at Haihai. Addressing the replacement of a malfunctioning vehicle power distribution unit and updating the cellular SIM card. Recently participated in a meeting regarding the new joint communications center. Other Department Highlights: Fireworks Auditor Michael Matsui retired and was celebrated for his 42 years of service to HFD and the community.