2025-06-26 Fire Commission Regular Minutes

Home

Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes June 26, 2025 Page 2 FIRE CHIEF'S REPORT Deputy Chief Volpe highlighted items from the Fire Chief's Report, in the Fire Chief's absence. A detailed report is on file. • Fiscal & Budget: The department is on track with spending as the fiscal year nears its end. Updates were provided on various grant-funded projects, including the delivery of new brush trucks and the installation of a new lifeguard tower at Kohaniki, which was blessed and is now in service. The Leleiwi tower is expected in 2026. • Human Resources: The HR Program Specialist position has been filled. The department has successfully transitioned to a six-month assessment period for internal promotions to improve predictability for members. Numerous recruitment and promotion processes are underway, including a firefighter recruit class expected to start in August. • Operations & Training: Deputy Chief Volpe reported on Battalion 1 and 2 responses, and shared highlights for Hazmat, Ocean Safety, Rescue, Emergency Medical Services, the Training Branch, Volunteer Section, Fire Prevention Section, Auxiliary Services, Information Technology, and the Safety Specialist. He highlighted the "Calm the Chaos" command and control training program as a significant initiative aimed at improving operational effectiveness and firefighter safety. The department also conducted "Nozzle Forward" training, which focused on core engine company operations. Additionally, it was announced that Ocean Safety will become a standalone division. • Facilities: Dispatchers have been moved to the joint communication center, and the Prevention Office has been moved to that vacant space. Personnel from the Central Fire Station have relocated to the temporary building, while Central undergoes repairs. • Recognition & Retirements: HFD held two Spring 2025 Promotional Ceremonies in May, one in Kona and one in Hilo. The department received a prestigious Community Partnership Award at the Pentagon for its outstanding collaboration with the Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA). Firefighter Wilson was honored with the Haweo Award for May for his actions during a motor vehicle accident response. Three members of the department retired at the end of May. Commissioner Wolf inquired about volunteer meetings. Volunteer commander Bertsch explained that the meetings are held quarterly without a fixed calendar. The next meeting is scheduled for Saturday, July 26th, at Station 8-A in Honoka`a. Meetings begin around 9.00 a.m. with executive leadership discussions or training for captains, followed by the main meeting at 10.00 a.m. The agenda includes administering the oath of office to recruits and presenting service and retirement certificates. The gathering concludes with food and conversation. "Save the Date" notices are sent to the commission secretary for distribution to all commissioners.