Board Packet for FC Meeting 10-23-25

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 25, 2025 Page 5 NEW BUSINESS Fire Chief's Annual Evaluation. The commission discussed finalizing the evaluation form. A revised, simpler version submitted by Commissioner Hirakami will be amended to include charter requirements as suggested by Deputy Corporation Counsel. The final form will be presented for approval at the next meeting. NEW BUSINESS Correspondence No. 25-02: Hawaii County Salary Commission's Inquiry to the appointing authorities concerning proposed salary adjustments. The commission discussed a request from the Salary Commission regarding proposed salary adjustments. Chief Todd stated that he had already submitted a response and that the Salary Commission had already held its meeting on the matter. No further action was taken. NEW BUSINESS Review of the Fire Department's operations related to rescue training for the purpose of recommending improvements. Chair Kosaki inquired whether a rescue training schedule was established and raised concerns regarding a recent rescue training incident. Battalion Chief Lono Lindsey, head of Special Operations, which oversees rescue training, explained they're currently using the same off-duty training program developed in 2012, which consists of eight hours monthly. Chair Kosaki expressed concern for the safety of personnel and the public, noting that the recent incident could have had serious consequences. He asked whether it was one of the five internal investigations and emphasized the need to ensure the issue was addressed and corrective measures implemented. Chief Todd clarified that the incident did not rise to the level of an internal investigation. It was a non-disciplinary, fact-finding review intended to determine what happened and identify areas for improvement. Further discussion focused on training programs, standards, and certifications. BC Lindsey reported that corrective actions have been taken, including reinforcing safety and procedural protocols for pre-dive checks and oversight, providing remedial training for the individual involved, and requiring all rescue companies to conduct both tabletop and hands-on drills. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Discussion regarding the Fire Department's watercraft program for the purpose of recommending improvements. The commission discussed the watercraft program with Ocean Safety Battalion Chief Bradley Young. One original rescue watercraft is being decommissioned, and another in storage is being prepared for use. Two new rescue watercrafts are expected to arrive to