2026-01-15 Fire Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes January 15, 2026 Page 6 Fire Prevention Highlights: Prevention conducted community outreach and media engagement, including a community hazard assessment in District 9, participation in Heroes and Helpers at Target (Dec. 6), and leading the Magic of the Season event (Dec. 12). Chief Todd attended the department-hosted holiday event on Dec. 13 after returning from training, showing appreciation to volunteers and staff. Prevention also participated in a Christmas event at the tennis stadium. Fire investigations included a fatal fire in Ocean View and a residential fire in Volcano. The UAS (drone) program is temporarily non-operational due to maintenance. Ocean Safety Highlights: Call activity remains high in Kona and Hilo. Five new Water Safety Officers began training on December 16, with training taking place at Richardson's. Volunteer Training Highlights: Regular monthly training activities continue. Station 14 Alpha held a blessing for a new tanker funded by the Kohala Ranch community in partnership with the Sayre Foundation. Chief Todd attended the blessing, recognizing the volunteers and the strong partnership between the community and the county. Technical Services Highlights: The transition to the new NERIS reporting system, mandated by the National Fire Administration, was completed smoothly. Volpe also noted continued improvements within the department's IT section, representing significant progress in recent years. Safety Program: The Respiratory Protection Program is undergoing changes, with one of six compressors currently out of service. A CDBG grant has been submitted to acquire another compressor and trailer. NFPA ground ladder testing equipment and supplies have been procured. The program also addresses environmental and safety concerns, including mold and lead testing, volcanic fallout, and air quality monitoring in the Kau district. Coordination continues with Training and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation on safety inspections, incident reports, and overall safety management. Passing of Fire Chief Kazuo Todd: The Hawaii Fire Department mourns the sudden passing of Fire Chief Kazuo Todd on December 14, 2025. With 21 years of service, including four as Fire Chief, he guided the department with a mission to save lives, protect property, and serve the community with aloha. His leadership brought significant advancements, including a $30 million budget increase and fleet modernization. Chief Todd leaves a lasting legacy and a stronger department. No public testimony was received on the Fire Chief's report. Recess was called at 11:11 a.m., and the meeting reconvened at 11.21 a.m.