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Hawaii Fire Commission <br /> Regular Session Minutes <br /> March 28, 2024 <br /> Page 2 <br /> Regarding fiscal matters, Chief Todd reported that the department is in a good financial <br /> position, with expenditures slightly above due to frontloaded purchases. He clarified that <br /> equipment expenses, including items like hoses, fall under operating capital. The <br /> discussion also touched on recent expenses for door repairs and potential future budget <br /> allocations for roof renovations. <br /> Updates on human resources included promotions and recruitment plans for various <br /> positions. Ongoing training initiatives and equipment procurement challenges, <br /> particularly regarding a repair project for a leaking gas tank on a boat were also <br /> discussed. <br /> Chief Todd provided updates on apparatus procurement, including details about the <br /> Volunteer Firefighter Grant and ongoing projects like the Kohala brush truck and the <br /> completion of the Kailua Kona yellow boat. Training programs, audits, and emergency <br /> response preparations were also addressed. <br /> Recess was called at 9:50 a.m., the meeting reconvened at 9:55 a.m. <br /> HFD now has a Fire Safety Specialist to ensure compliance with OSHA/HIOSH <br /> regulations and uphold general safety practices. Assistant Chief Chadwick and the Fire <br /> Safety Specialist addressed issues highlighted during a visit from HIOSH, notably <br /> regarding bloodborne pathogen training and respirator fit testing. Through collaboration <br /> with HIOSH, they mitigated the fine from $18,000 to $13,000. <br /> Chair Kosaki inquired about the position description for the Fire Safety Specialist, <br /> clarifying its distinction from a Safety Officer role, with future consideration for safety <br /> officer positions. <br /> Discussion ensued on drug testing protocols managed by the Department of Human <br /> Resources, emphasizing the importance of cancer screening for firefighters. Also, <br /> certifications, standby pay, and County vehicle usage. Concerns were raised regarding <br /> communication with the union regarding work schedules, <br /> Recess was called at 11:00 a.m., the meeting reconvened at 11:10 a.m. <br /> NOMINATION OF THE FIRE COMMISSION CHAIR AND VICE-CHAIR FOR THE <br /> CALENDAR YEAR 2024 <br /> Chair Kosaki initiated the process for nominations. Commissioner Henkel advised that <br /> self-nominations are allowed. However, no one expressed interest. It was noted that <br /> Commissioners Henkel and Nakashima's terms are ending, with two commissioners <br /> absent. <br /> Commissioner Magsalin nominated Chair Kosaki for the position of Chair, seconded by <br /> Commissioner Mattos. With 5 votes in favor, the motion passed. <br />