2023-09-28 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 28, 2023 Page 8 the state. Chief Todd provided insight into how HFD compares to those on Maui and Kauai, noting the differences in station numbers and department structure. Further discussion revolved around inflation and various proposed percentage increases for the chiefs salary. • Commissioner Magsalin made a motion to increase the chief's salary to $190- $200,000. The rationale would be considering the workload, scope, and inflation. Chair Kosaki suggested discussing this further before making a motion. DCC Salas- Ferguson advised there could be a second to enable discussion. However, no one seconded the motion. He suggested there could be a second for discussion purposes only. Commission Luke subsequently seconded the motion for the purpose of discussion, refinement, and gathering additional opinions. Chair Kosaki advocated for a 20% increase for the chiefs salary, echoing Commissioner Magsalin's reasoning. Commissioner Magsalin noted the growing population and increased demand for fire and emergency services in Hilo, as it is the second-largest population center in the state. Commissioner Luke emphasized the unique challenges faced by HFD, given the island's vast physical size and the need to serve remote areas. Commissioner Mattos inquired about the impact on the deputy chief's salary if the fire chiefs salary increases. Chair Kosaki indicated that an increase for the deputy chief typically follows that of the fire chief. Commissioner Mattos expressed interest in making a motion to raise the salary by 20%. DCC Salas-Ferguson explained the procedural steps required for this, suggesting that Commissioner Magsalin could either withdraw her original motion or he could make a motion to amend it, leading to a subsequent vote on the amendment motion. • Commissioner Mattos made a motion to amend the original motion, seconded by Vice Chair Wolf. o Ms. Correa called a vote by roll call: Commissioner Nakashima voted in favor, Commissioners Luke and Magsalin opposed, Commissioner Mattos, Vice Chair Wolf, and Chair Kosaki voted in favor. With four in favor and two opposed, DCC Salas-Ferguson explained that the motion to amend had failed since it required all five votes. Chair Kosaki inquired about the course of action in the event of a stalemate. DCC Salas-Ferguson explained that if no recommendation is reached by the Fire Commission, the Salary Commission would proceed without their input. Chair Kosaki asked if anyone wanted to change their position, if not they would move on with no recommendation. The original motion is still on the floor. The motion on the table was to increase the chief's salary to $190-$200,000, he asked if there was any further discussion, but there was none.