2009-08-12 Fire Commission Minutes

Home

Hawai'i Fire Chief’s Association Conference: Event is scheduled for November 19 -21, 2009 at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. Appreciation was offered to Fire Commission Chair John Bertsch for volunteering to assist with the conference. The Fire Department will distribute conference packets at the September meeting. Commission Bowles inquired on the lifeguard service at Punaluu Beach Park. Chief Oliveira replied that funding was approved and allocated for the positions. Commissioner Kaoiwi expressed his concern regarding improvement with Fire and Police Dispatcher communications.According to Commissioner Kaoiwi, Police Officers were dispatched to an incident involving a boat fire which turned out to be a false alarm. Fire Dispatchers learned of the false alarm and did not inform Police right away. Commissioner Kaoiwi recommended that as a courtesy Fire Dispatchers should follow up immediately on calls involving Police. Chief Oliveira agreed and will encourage a better partnership. He stated that each dispatch has a direct impact on each others operations. It is important for the safety of the public and the officers that both dispatch sections improve communications. Also it is in the interest of the county that they maintain a courtesy and respect to one another. Chief Oliveira pointed out the importance of building the future dispatch center because he is confident that relations between both sections will significantly improve. Chair Bertsch stated that he feels that both Police and Fire dispatch are doing a fantastic job. They are presented by unique challenges due to geographical coverage. However, in this situation training should be addressed. Commissioner Kaoiwi inquired on the proposed Keaau Fire Station. Chief Oliveira replied that the project would need to be revisited with the new administration. NEW BUSINESS None UNFINISHED BUSINESS None COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget & Finance (Bowles) No report. 5