2024-07-25 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes July 25, 2024 Page 12 However, Chair Kosaki noted that personnel often share their views voluntarily, and while he has a personal rapport with them, others might be hesitant to speak freely. Commissioner Cushnie sought clarification from counsel on whether visiting stations to get a general sense of the environment is permissible. DCC Salas-Ferguson mentioned he would need to review previous advice from their office. He noted that the commission is interested in upward feedback—how those under the chief's administration perceive his performance—and stated he would look into this matter further. Commissioner Hirakami expressed support for visiting fire stations to meet with captains and crews, noting that such visits were part of his duties on the Water Board and he found them valuable. Chair Kosaki agreed and encouraged commissioners to visit stations, emphasizing that past Fire Commissioners would visit to discuss operations and needs without specifically asking about the chief. He suggested commissioners introduce themselves and seek feedback on the work environment, training, equipment, etc. Hirakami expressed discomfort with unannounced visits and preferred to arrange them through the secretary. Chair Kosaki suggested that the chief's secretary could handle the arrangements. Commissioner Magsalin added that during EMS Week, she contacted the station in her district, asked for the captain, and obtained a headcount of personnel on duty. She then brought lunch for the team. Additionally, during longan season from her farm, she packages the fruit and delivers it to the station with a card. The personnel have always been pleasant and welcoming. She also encouraged attending volunteer meetings as another way to gain insight into station operations. Commissioner Perrin inquired about the process for arranging a station visit. He was advised that contacting the chief's secretary to make the arrangements would be a good first step. Commissioner Luke suggested shadowing the chief to better understand the operational flow and observe his commitment to transparency and clear communication. ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Kosaki announced the commission's next monthly meeting is scheduled for August 22, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., at the West Hawai'i Civic Center, Building A, Council Chambers, 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Highway, Kailua-Kona, HI. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 11:55 a.m. SUBMITTED BY: CHARISSE CORREA, SECRETARY APPROVED BY: CARLENE WOLF, VICE CHAIR