2010-03-10 Fire Commission Minutes

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Commissioner Rosehill expressed his concern regarding the recent forest fire in Kealakekua. He kept himself informed on the fire by reading the newspaper daily and noticed that in a day’s time the fire spread from 400 to 1800 acres. Commissioner Rosehill stated that he inquired with other agencies involved and the fire should have been contained at 400 acres. His conclusion as to why the fire was not contained was that personnel may have been apprehensive on bringing in resources to extinguish the fire because of the cost it would incur; especially regarding the current economical situation. Commission Rosehill commented that a multi agency effort should be formulated to have better coordination in order to contain fires in its earlier stage. He is not sure what the cost incurred but thinks that the expense would have been less if resources were used earlier. Chair Bowles asked whether the fire was under the Fire Department’s jurisdiction. Chief Oliveira answered that the fire was under the Fire Department’s jurisdiction. The department is scheduling an “after action review” with the landowners and other agencies. Once the meeting is scheduled, he welcomes any member of the commission to participate. Also, for the last seven years he has been working with the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Agency, Volcanoes National Park, and other agencies that belong to the Big Island Wildfire Coordinating Group. They have discussed creating an “All Hazard Type 3 Management Team.” Commissioner Bertsch asked whether the Battalion Chief would be under scrutiny for the amount of money spent under his direction. Chief Oliveira replied that they are accountable for the requested resources not its expense. Commissioner Bertsch recommended that the HFD keep track of the American Medical Response (AMR) call volumes because they are supplementing the Fire Department’s EMS program. AMR utilizes the Fire Department’s dispatch center. He does see the positive in the partnership. However, at the same time he does also anticipate future issues. Chair Bowles stated that it would be appropriate for Commissioner Bertsch to submit his concerns to the Fire Commission in written communications. Commissioner Bertsch recognized Captain Henry DeSa and Assistant Chief Ralph Yawata for their support to the Volunteer Program. Commissioner Bertsch questioned the status on the Waikii Ranch Volunteer Fire truck and the Injury and Death benefits for volunteers. 6