Board Packet for FC Meeting 8-28-25

Home

Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes July 24, 2025 Page 5 per employee. The data would provide the commission with an effective tool to aid in the performance evaluation of the Fire Chief. Commissioner Cushnie cited the County Charter, which allows the commission to engage consultants as necessary to perform its duties. There was discussion among commissioners, Chief Todd, and DCC Salas-Ferguson. Chief Todd raised concerns. He expressed disagreement with an anonymous process, citing concerns that it could allow for unsubstantiated or abusive comments without accountability. He also noted the legal responsibility to follow up on critical issues raised, which is complicated by anonymity. He stressed the need for safeguards to prevent individuals from submitting multiple surveys. He raised the logistical challenge of including personnel without department email addresses, such as Ocean Safety staff. He also questioned the value of feedback from employees with whom he has limited direct interaction, such as firefighters he may only see annually. Chief Todd explained concerns regarding funding and procurement, stating the commission is not a part of the department and does not have its own budget to procure such a service. He outlined potential options, such as reallocating funds from the current budget or requesting a supplemental budget from County Council. DCC Salas-Ferguson clarified that while the commission does not have a separate line- item budget, it is part of the Fire Department. He advised that the commission's first step is to vote on whether to pursue the engagement of a consultant. The subsequent steps of identifying funding and managing procurement would be handled in conjunction with the chief and the department's finance personnel. The formation of a Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) was mentioned as a possibility for commissioners to work on the details of the process outside of a formal meeting. A motion was made by Commissioner Wolf and seconded by Commissioner Hanano to pursue engagement of a survey consultant to gather upward feedback from Fire Department personnel to be used for the performance evaluation of the Fire Chief. Discussion: Commissioner Wolf asked if funding should be addressed; Chair Kosaki said it could be worked out later. Commissioner Cushnie inquired about procurement. DCC Salas-Ferguson explained that funding and procurement should be discussed with HFD finance staff and the chief. Commissioner Wolf asked about reviewing HFD's budget or requesting funding from the Mayor; DCC Salas-Ferguson said that would follow later, after consultation with the chief. There was no further discussion; the motion carried unanimously. Commissioner Perrin left the meeting at 12.08 p.m. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Commission Secretary Position: The commission reviewed and approved a draft letter addressed to the Mayor, Fire Chief, and HR Director proposing changes to the