2024-06-25 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes June 25, 2024 Page 7 Fire 135, including FAA requirements, operational control requirements, pilot turnover, and whether the pilots would be contracted or county employees. Commissioner Mattos asked if the water safety officers work closely with Station 7, specifically regarding their jet skis at Kailua Pier. He mentioned that there were two new jet skis that seemed unused. Deputy Chief Moller stated he believed that's correct. Commissioner Mattos explained that he wasn't very familiar with Water Safety, but he was approached just before this meeting and was asked to bring this up and ask for the status of Unit 3, the jet ski with the Kailua Station. Deputy Chief Moller explained that the Sayre Foundation had provided more jet skis than currently needed due to a lack of trained personnel. Two jet skis are stored to prevent damage and there aren't enough personnel to cover the jet skis. There was further discussion regarding higher-level training and safety issues. Deputy Chief Moller added that HFD is exploring a robotic water rescue drone system. Chair Kosaki raised concerns about drug testing, specifically mentioning a case where someone tested positive for THC and had a prescription containing THC. He expressed concerns brought up to him about the individual working alongside others and operating equipment without clarity on drug presence in their system. He acknowledged the confidentiality between the employee and the Medical Review Officer (MRO). He noted that he believes that traces of THC might be present due to the prescription, but higher levels would indicate active drug use. Deputy Chief Moller explained that marijuana is prohibited, regardless of prescription, according to union agreements. Any positive test result handled by DHR would be treated as a contract violation. There was further discussion regarding reasonable suspicion, guidelines, and policies. Commissioner Mattos inquired about the actions taken and asked if they were placed on leave. Deputy Chief Moller responded that they were suspended and entered into a program where they must complete certain requirements, including a subsequent test, to return to work. He further explained that this program is managed by DHR, and a positive test result reported by DHR would lead to termination as a second contract violation. Commissioner Mattos asked if having a medical card mattered, to which Deputy Chief Moller clarified that it did not. He explained that according to the DAT policy within the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), having a prescription does not exempt someone from responsibility. The discussion also touched on the MRO's role and employee confidentiality rights. Chair Kosaki asked about the upcoming continuing challenge and the department's interest in attending. Deputy Chief Moller mentioned he was unsure of the current status and would follow up and provide an update. Discussion continued about conferences and attendance.