2025-01-23 Fire Commission Minutes

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Regular Session Minutes January 23, 2025 Page 7 Commissioner Cushnie requested a discussion on the process and guidelines for Fire Commissionersvisiting stations. He proposed that the chief issue a blanket letter allowing commissioners to stop by stations anytime to chat with personnel, as long as it’s a convenient time. If it’s not a good time, personnel could inform them and request a return visit. The goal is to make visits more flexible and easier for commissioners when they are in the area. Chair Kosaki asked if the proposal was acceptable to the chief. Chief Todd explained that in the past, he had offered commissioners the opportunity to sit in on interviews and other activities but was told that wasn’t allowed, referencing the Fire Commission Rules. He stated he is open to the idea, as long as it aligns with the commission's purpose and duties. Ultimately, he deferred to the commission's legal guidelines. If counsel approves, he has no issues, but if counsel disagrees, the answer would be no. He is willing to issue a letter based on what is allowed. DCC Salas-Ferguson explained that there is no specific rule or law regarding commissioners visiting stations. The previous guidance was likely to avoid interfering with operations or administration. The Fire Commission oversees the chief and has limited roles, such as hiring and firing the chief. The law prohibits the commission from interfering with the department's standard operations or administrative affairs. However, the fire chief has indicated that it's acceptable for commissioners to visit stations and speak with personnel, as long as they give notice. He also questioned whether members ofthe public can visit stations and ask questions. Fire Chief Todd stated that it’s courteous for commissioners to give a heads-up notice before visiting stations so personnel can be informed. While retired commissioners may be recognized, other members may not be. He emphasized that the commission is technically the boss and if they decide on a process, he will issue a memo. Chair Kosaki clarified that the public can walk into fire stationsand talk to personnel as long as it doesn’t interfere with operations.Chief Todd pointed out that while the public can visit, they can’t sit in the commission’s seats or bring up issues during meetings. He stated that the commission, guided by legal standards, can decide as a group on this matter. Commissioner Hirakami emphasized the ethical responsibility of commissioners to avoid interfering with operations. He stated that commissioners should not ask personnel about operational or wage-related matters and should act as part of the general public, respecting the boundaries of their position. Commissioner Mattos disagreed, statingthat as a representative of his district, he should be able to visit stations, talk to personnel, and bring up issues to the chief without being accused of interfering. He believed it was part of supporting his district.