2025-06-26 Fire Commission Regular Minutes

Home

Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes June 26, 2025 Page 3 Vice Chair Hirakami inquired about dispatch vacancies, and there was discussion on current vacancies and ongoing recruitment efforts. Commissioner Cushnie previously requested Chief Todd include updates about the Aviation Division in future Chief's Reports, and it might've been overlooked. He asked if it could be included in the reports moving forward. Commissioner Mattos inquired about the status of the rescue boat bid. Deputy Chief Volpe confirmed the project went out to bid, a vendor was selected, funding was secured, and the process is moving forward. Mattos noted this has been a concern for over four years. He also requested updates on the volunteer program, sharing his own experience as a former volunteer. He asked whether volunteers are considered county employees. Deputy Chief Volpe clarified they are not. Mattos expressed concerns about liability, CDL licensing, drug testing, and grooming standards. Volpe explained that volunteers go through the same driver training as career personnel, which meets required standards. However, unlike career staff, volunteers are not subject to the same grooming and drug testing policies due to union agreements. Regarding liability, Volpe stated that volunteers are covered if injured while performing their duties, as their actions are considered part of their service. Volunteer commander Bertsch explained that the volunteer division is established and mandated by the Charter, which also outlines the issues currently being addressed. He responded to concerns about driving and grooming standards, noting that volunteers are not permitted to use SCBAs (self-contained breathing apparatus. He noted that a previous chief had indicated that grooming standards for volunteers could be adjusted, allowing for beards and mustaches. Bertsch emphasized that volunteers are held to high standards and are conscientious in their duties. He acknowledged that funding is a primary challenge, which they continually work to address. He also provided historical context, explaining that volunteers were issued SCBAs in the past. Chair Kosaki inquired about the Leleiwi lifeguard tower, noting that the previous structure was deemed unsafe. There was also discussion on applying for or transferring into the Fire Communications Captain position, WSO recruitment, and safety committee meetings. Additionally, the 5-6 gallon foam spill mentioned on page 14 of the Fire Chief's Report was discussed. Deputy Chief Volpe explained that the Class B foam involved contains "forever chemicals," which pose serious carcinogenic risks. All such foam was pulled and stored on pallets in the warehouse for disposal. An employee discovered a spill from a cardboard box of 5-gallon containers. The hazmat team was called in to isolate, clean, and properly dispose of the material, and the incident was reported.