2024-07-25 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes July 25, 2024 Page 8 Chief Todd explained that there were a few issues concerning the MD 500 helicopter. The MD company may be going out of business, so they're stockpiling parts for it. Regarding the status of the 135, he will confirm the details and report back. They had to assign one of their personnel as operational control per requirements, the contract was just completed, but they were off-island, which eliminated their ability to have operational control. They can still transport patients— the Battalion Chief can make the call if it's a life safety issue—but they can't bill for the transport unless they meet the 135 requirements. The State needs to be informed because they can't bill the patient under 135 unless they comply with Federal Aviation Administration regulations. While they can continue transporting, billing is halted until they comply. Everything is set up, and the necessary controls are in place to address the situation. With staffing changes and new pilots, pilot training has been challenging. Regarding the Chopper 3 concept, the H145 that the Sayre Foundation is purchasing may not necessarily be integrated into the Fire Department. They are exploring options with Robert Lau and donors about potential programs, including the possibility of it becoming a state chopper or being managed by a private third party for inter-island transports. If the H145 is incorporated into HFD, it will bring several issues, such as exceeding their pilot threshold, changes in FAA regulations, and impacts on pilot compensation. They are still working on these details. Chief Todd further stated from a public service perspective, it would benefit the County of Hawai'i, and HFD will support efforts to find a solution, whether or not the department directly operates the chopper. Commissioner Cushnie inquired about the pilot retention issue and asked for an update on efforts to retain pilots and reduce turnover. Chief Todd explained that pilot turnover has been influenced by offers they couldn't match and retirements. Natural turnover is expected and there needs to be good training processes. To address this, they're considering direct contracts for pilots rather than subcontracting. This has been in the works for about a year and a half. They've also looked into integrating pilots into the civil service system but found it challenging due to rigid salary structures. Further discussion covered how other counties manage pilots, including contracts, training, pay, and budgets. Recess was called at 10:49 a.m., the meeting reconvened at 11:02 a.m. Chair Kosaki then excused the chief, who left the meeting. WRITTEN TESTIMONY Chair Kosaki asked counsel whether the anonymous correspondence concerning dispatch should be added to the next agenda for discussion or if it could be addressed at the current meeting.