2014-02-12 Fire Commission Regular Minutes

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HawaiÒi County Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes February 12, 2014 Page 2 was she assaulted, the driver told her when she calls 911 they will come to get her. Urgent Care called for her because their hands were tied. She had a melt down in their office. She understands paramedics have a difficult job. She just wanted to share her heart and soul. She believes that based on medical evidence, she had enough of a medical condition that was exacerbated by this situation. Chair Taniguchi thanked Burns for having the courage to come forward with her concerns, and also informed Burns that he was not clear on what she was asking of the commission. Taniguchi noted her complaint form, as submitted to the commission, was incomplete and did not specify the exact basis of her complaint. Ms. Burns stated that she tried to file a report with the police, and they (the police) advised her to file with the Fire Commission. She needs medical help. She could barely walk on Wednesday night because of the pain. She is seeking psychiatric help to identify the role she played. She knows she said some things. As a citizen she needs help because she is facing disability for the rest of her life. In response to questions from the commissioners, Ms. Burns stated that from previous issues she had problems with her knees. The driver told her she had to get out of the ambulance. She knows everyoneÓs emotions were raw. She said, ÐJust so you know, I have all the medical documents,Ñ and alleged the driver said, ÐJust so you know, when you call 911, we will come to get you.Ñ She is concerned about the arrogance of the personnel. She thinks an investigation of the employeesÓ conduct should happen. She felt she was assaulted and threatened when she was told to be quiet or she would be kicked out of the ambulance. ÐWhen somebody pulls you from behind and you are sandwiched, that is assault.Ñ Chair Taniguchi explained the Fire CommissionÓs process, scope and breath of authority. Recess was called at 10:25 a.m. The meeting reconvened at 10:31 a.m. EXECUTIVE SESSION Commissioner De Luz motioned to meet in executive session to consult with Corporation Counsel on questions and issues pertaining to the commission's powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities; to consider discipline and charges against employees of the HawaiÒi County Fire Department regarding Complaint HCFC 14-01, and to consider sensitive matters relating to public safety HRS 92-5 (a) (2) (4) (6) and the HawaiÒi County Charter Section 13-20 (b). Vice Chair Moku seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Executive session convened at 10:35 a.m. Regular session reconvened at 10:52 a.m.