Laserfiche WebLink
existing vacancies. A decline in overtime will occur as recruits are assigned <br />to positions. <br />Chair Bertsch inquired on the status of the Fleet Management Program. <br />Chief Oliveira stated that the Fire Department’s (two) strategic planning <br />committees created a fleet replacement and maintenance program by <br />accessing available expenses in the County’s (FRESH) Fiscal Resources <br />Enterprise Software for Hawai‘i. A database was established by researching <br />invoices, bills, charges, etc. The database will keep an accurate analysis on <br />the maintenance and longevity of the vehicle. An update will be provided at <br />the next meeting. <br />Chair Bertsch suggested that an overview of the Fleet Replacement Program <br />be deferred to the next meeting held in Hilo. <br />Commissioner Bowles questioned whether it is possible to discriminate how <br />the overtime is allocated. <br />Chief Oliveira explained that overtime accumulates when there are incidents, <br />and when employees transport equipment, supplies, and important material <br />that require prompt attention. The Fire Department is trying to identify and <br />minimize what needs to be delivered by hand versus the mail. <br />Commissioner Bowles commented that it is necessary for the entire <br />department to be conscientious regarding efficiency. <br />Chair Bertsch questioned whether the Battalion Chiefs could transfer <br />equipment and material. <br />Chief Oliveira answered that they do for the most part. <br />Commissioner Browne questioned the number of vacancies in the <br />department. <br />Chief Oliveira replied that there are nine vacancies not including upcoming <br />retirements. His budget proposal defers hiring for the nine vacancies as a <br />cost saving measure. The nine vacancies will not have an adverse affect on <br />operations. <br />Chief Oliveira informed the Fire Commission of a number of Legislative <br />proposals that will have a substantial impact on the Fire Department. These <br />issues deal with the benefits for current employees. HB 1719 involves <br />withholding medical benefits from public employees who retire after <br />June 30, 2009, until they reach Medicare retirement age. This will result in <br />earlier retirements. <br />3 <br /> <br />