2024-07-25 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes July 25, 2024 Page 9 DCC Salas-Ferguson advised that it could be added to the next agenda for discussion. Chair Kosaki agreed to include it on the next agenda. DCC Salas-Ferguson explained that the rules and Sunshine Law have some grey areas. According to the rules, the commission can initiate an inquiry into matters within its jurisdiction, either by a public request if submitted within 10 days or by a motion from a commissioner at any time. He suggested that a commissioner could make a motion to address the issues raised in the email, which could then be placed on the agenda for further discussion, allowing the Fire Department to respond to the inquiry. Vice Chair Wolf inquired if they should notify the individual that their correspondence has been received and will be included on the agenda. DCC Salas-Ferguson advised that a commissioner could make a motion to start an inquiry and request Ms. Correa to email the writer, acknowledging receipt of the testimony and informing them that the matter will be on the agenda for next month if the commission chooses to pursue it. Chair Kosaki then asked for a motion to address the issue. Commissioner Perrin made a motion to initiate an inquiry into the issues raised in the email received on July 22, 2024. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hirakami. With no further discussion, the motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Magsalin asked if the chief had received a copy of the email. Chair Kosaki confirmed that Chief Todd had received it. PERSONNEL MATTER Chair Kosaki brought up another inquiry. He noted that Chief Todd had mentioned the deputy chief might retire or resign by the end of the year and that interviews were underway. Chair Kosaki asked if it would be appropriate for the commission to inquire about the qualities the chief is seeking in a new deputy. DCC Salas-Ferguson explained that the commission's powers, duties, and functions are defined by the County Charter and the Commission's Rules. Under Rule 4, the commission can review personnel actions to ensure they conform with the policies outlined in Section 7-4.2 of the Charter. This section mandates that the Fire Department operate with high standards of recruitment and merit-based promotions. Therefore, the commission can ask the department to confirm that the selection process for the new deputy is based on fair and appropriate standards of merit, ability, and work performance, and designed to attract individuals with high levels of education, intelligence, and personal stability. Chair Kosaki stated he disagrees, noting that the deputy chief is appointed by the chief and is not subject to a formal recruitment process with specific qualifications. The chief has full discretion in making this decision. DCC Salas-Ferguson acknowledged that while the appointment is within the chief's authority, it must still adhere to certain standards outlined in the Charter. Rule 12 of the Fire Commission Rules states that the