2010-02-10 Fire Commission Minutes

Home

Commissioner Bertsch felt that specific budget matters must come from the Chief, where the information would be delivered correctly and accurately. Chair Bowles agreed with Commissioner Bertsch, however, felt it imperative on the part of the commission to have an opportunity to discuss future direction as they approach critical times and urged the commission to become engaged in it. He encouraged each commissioner to make time to discuss matters with the chief and his staff and pointed out that according to the Charter, the commission has that responsibility. The Chair shared that he has been working the budget since the foundation of the commission, and that it’s never been as critical as it is now. Commissioner Kaoiwi shared that he understood both Chair Bowles’ point and Commissioner Bertsch’s point, and had concerns with regard to some of the vacant positions that may be eliminated which may lead to TAing of staff, which would still be costly, and nothing would be gained. Deputy Corporation Counsel (DCC) Gonzales appreciated the Chair’s desire for the commission to start thinking ahead as the budget issue would be forthcoming. He reminded the commission that their role in the budget, by Charter, is the review of the annual budget prepared by the Chief. Once the Chief prepares his budget and has it, it’s not a draft, nor a concept of possibilities as was related by Vice Chair Robinson. That’s when the discussion really begins. DCC Gonzales believed that the chair was trying to ready the commission with their questions and is advising them to start the dialogue as soon as possible and to be ready with their questions. DCC Gonzales also agreed that Commissioner Bertsch’s concern that specifics on what may have been discussed cast in the wrong light can create negativity that the department or commission doesn’t need. However, DCC Gonzales felt that Commissioner Robinson’s report didn’t appear to be conveying the chief’s plan, but of possible options. He reminded the commission that the annual budget isn’t prepared yet, but when it does come up for review, that’s when suggestions and dialogue will occur between the administration and the commission. Then, the commission makes its recommendation to the Mayor’s Office and the Managing Director. He reminded the commission to remember to work within their role and start working on questions to ask, such as, “What kind of alternatives can be pitched to the chief, if it’s not already in his budget plan?” DCC Gonzales stated that the discussion was fine and that it was part of the Budget and Finance report as an issue on the near horizon. Chair Bowles voiced that one of the problems the commission has experienced is waiting until the budget is hard. The department needs the commission’s support as it’s been in an uphill battle building the department since 2000. Having some financial decisions made by the State with respect to the County of the Tourism Tax may place the department in a very serious position. The commission has a responsibility to provide services. Members of this commission should be having budget discussions with the chief. 10