2006-06-14 Fire Commission Minutes

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Chair Maedo questioned whether it was normal practice to have interviews on weekends and holidays. Chief Oliveira answered that interviews occasionally occur on weekends; however, interviews on holidays are uncommon. The HFD makes every effort to be cost conscious. In this case, there were several reasons to expedite the interview process. The recruits needed to begin by July, and there were considerations as to where to hold the interview and the availability of the interview panel members. Chair Maedo questioned the overtime involved. Chief Oliveira explained that the interview panel was comprised of 24-hour employees who only get extra holiday pay during their 24-hour shifts. There was no additional cost other than their straight overtime, which they would have received anyway. Commissioner Kudlo questioned Dennis Brancos reinstatement. ChiefOliveiraexplainedthatMr.Brancowasaformerdispatcherwhocouldno longer meet the requirements of the job due to an injury/illness. Therefore, he was placed in the Countys Department of Civil Services Job Placement Program. However, due to unsuccessful completion of the program has returned to original position on paid leave. Commissioner Kudlo inquired on whether there was anything special to report on female Firefighter Melanie Keolanui. Chief Oliveira reported that all female Firefighters are being utilized to promote and market female interest in a career with the fire service. Commissioner Kudlo questioned the two-dollar premium offered to the one- man stations. Chief Oliveira replied that the HFD has been operating with one-man stations for more than 25-30 years. When Chief Oliveira became part of the organization in 1980, there were three one-man stations located in Laupahoehoe, North Kohala, and the other in Kawaihae. Over the years, the Kawaihae Station became the South Kohala Station (Station 14) and the Laupahoehoe Station remained a one-man station. Additionally, Waikoloa, Ocean View, and Paradise Park opened up as one-man stations. The one- man stations were staffed with one Fire Equipment Operator per shift. With the continuous insistence of the current administration and a partnership with the union, along with the Fire Commissions support, the administration was successful; the County Council approved 12 additional Firefighter positions in 4