2023-09-28 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 28, 2023 Page 3 Chair Kosaki wanted to know how it's been for HFD dispatchers working in HPD's dispatch center. Chef Todd explained, that in the long term, they'll be working in a new dispatch center, sharing a physical location. The current police chief is open to the idea of re-titling their positions as "Public Safety Communicators" instead of specifying police or fire, a change Chief Todd supports. Although this may involve a lengthy process with the Department of Human Resources (DHR), it could be a possibility in the future. For now, the focus is on managing day-to-day operations. There was further discussion regarding the non-emergency phone line and other lines within the police and fire systems. Chair Kosaki inquired about the transition of WSOs from part-time to full-time roles. Chief Todd clarified that all but two individuals have shifted to full-time positions, with the remaining two or three opting to work part-time at 20 hours a week due to personal preference. The discussion turned to the status of the WSO V position. Chief Todd conveyed that it's still under review by the Department of Human Resources (DHR), along with several other newly created positions. Chair Kosaki sought information regarding the vacant Battalion Chief position in West Hawaii after a retirement. Chief Todd explained that they currently have a backlog of work and are running behind schedule. An assessment for this position is expected in October, and the delay is affecting various other aspects of their operations. To address the workload, Chief Todd mentioned reassigning his secretary to focus solely on assisting him and emphasized the need for assistant chiefs to have their own clerks. There's a growing demand for firebreaks in various communities and public meetings, with Chair Kosaki suggesting delegation to the chiefs below him for effective management. Commissioner Mattos commended Chief Todd for his positive efforts in improving dispatch but expressed the need for more support in other department areas from the chiefs working under him. Chief Todd assured Commissioner Mattos that both the deputy and assistant chiefs are dedicated and working diligently, although their workload has become overwhelming. Chair Kosaki recommended that the chief consider delegating some of his responsibilities to the BCs. Chief Todd explained that BCs have also been stepping up and have been doing a great job. • Total Calls for Service: Total calls for the month of August is 2,710, year to date at 22,027, and the estimated number of calls for service at the end of the calendar year is 33,041. • Fire Impacts: In August, content loss is estimated at a little over a million dollars. • Emergency Operations: