2008-01-09 Fire Commission Minutes

Home

Support Services Division Ocean Safety report by Captain John Kapsky. Captain Kapsky informed the commission that Ocean Safety will be conducting a physical agility test for the recruitment of two half-time positions in Kona. The test will be scheduled for January 28, 2008, followed by interviews on February 8, 2008. Those positions are expected to be filled by the end of February.Also, in order to add four full-time positions to the future lifeguard tower at Pohoiki, the department will be going before the County Council to request its approval. Once the positions are approved, the department will begin preparations for the tower. The department ordered three towers from a manufacturer on the mainland. According to Captain Kapsky, the State of California received funding to redo every tower in the state with this manufacturer. Therefore, the manufacturer agreed to provide the Hawai'i County Fire Department’s Ocean Safety Division’s towers prior to the State of California’s project. Commissioner Maedo asked whether California would be able to donate some of its towers to Hawai'i County. Captain Kapsky replied that he would inquire with the manufacturer. Commissioner Bertsch questioned the cost of the towers. Captain Kapsky answered that each tower costs approximately $50,000. Commissioner Kudlo inquired on Ocean Safety Division’s recent publicity. Captain Kapsky stated that the Ocean Safety Division works hard to keep the community apprised of the department’s needs and to promote community awareness about beaches that have a high rate of injuries. Fire Auxiliary Services Bureau Communication Section Dispatch Trainees: Two new dispatchers are actively being trained. They will be introduced at the February meeting. On December 24 and 29, 2007, there were two radio system console failures. Pacific Wireless technicians were able to repair the problem. Warehouse Section New Viking Stoves installed at Station 15, 5 and 4. New Gear Bags were distributed to all personnel. 5