2024-09-26 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 26, 2024 Page 2 • Alternative Funding & Grants: Chief Todd reported that the grants are on track and progressing as expected. He also discussed training programs and provided updates on the Kohanaiki and Leleiwi lifeguard towers, which are being funded through fair share contributions. • HR Branch Report: Chief Todd reported that their program budgets are on target. He also provided updates on internal and open recruitments, noting that the recruitment for the Fire Prevention Battalion Chief position has been completed. They will soon move forward with the interview and assessment center for the Fire Hazmat Material Specialist position. Regarding open recruitment, Chief Todd mentioned that all conditional offers for the Water Safety I positions were rescinded for eight candidates due to a grievance involving Water Safety Officer (WSO) III. The WSO grievance was further discussed, with Chair Kosaki raising a question about how years of service are calculated in Ocean Safety, given the various part- time roles, such as half-time, three-quarter time, and 5/8 time. He questioned whether service would be based on total years or actual hours worked, as someone working 20 hours a week for three years differs from someone working full-time for two years. Chief Todd said he would bring this matter to the union for consideration. Chief Todd noted that the department is moving away from part-time Water Safety Officer positions. He added that those currently holding part-time roles likely wouldn't be interested in full-time positions, but once they leave, he plans to convert their part-time roles into full-time positions. His long-term goal is to phase out part-time positions entirely. Vice Chair Wolf left the meeting at 9:34 a.m. • Total Calls for Service: The year-to-date total is at 20,733 calls, with an estimated 31,100 calls for service expected by the end of the year. Of these, 71% were rescue and EMS-related, around 2-3% were fire incidents, and 16% were good intent calls. • Response Times: Average turnout times are currently around 5% of their target compared to the national average, and they are actively working to improve this. • Fire Impacts: In August, there were 12 wildland fire calls, bringing the year-to-date total to 120. A total of 132 acres burned, making the total year-to-date 288. There was further discussion about El Nino and La Nina, along with efforts for fuel reduction. Chair Kosaki raised concerns about the proper processing of green waste due to the threat of coconut rhinoceros beetles. Commissioner Hirakami inquired about the impact of high winds and downed powerlines during Tropical Storm "Hone," asking whether any wildfires were caused by the event. Chief Todd explained that the department was fully staffed and