2016-10-12 Fire Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes October 12, 2016 Page 2 ✓ 2016/17 Budget: They were directed to cut their budget by 5%, and the first draft is due November 1. They will submit a supplemental budget with increases. Alternative Funding and Grants ✓ 2015 CDBG: The Pahoa Brush Truck project has been completed. ✓ 2016 CDBG: There was a protest by a bidder. ✓ 2015 AFG Grant: The application for replacement of self-contained breathing apparatus inventory was submitted. ✓ 2016 Office of Aging Grant: This community-based paramedic program for West Hawaii started on September 19. Human Resources Division: There was a Battalion Chief of Emergency Operations promotion in West Hawaii. Interviews were conducted for two Water Safety Officer I vacancies. Chair De Luz expressed concern that the Fire Department doesn't have a Public Information Officer or an IT person. The Fire Department is a 24-hour business, but they can only get IT service during the 8 -hour work day. Chief Rosario stated that it would be great to have additional clerks. He shares his personal secretary with the Deputy and Assistant Chiefs. Accountant Lorenzo does a lot of the fiscal work including making sure vendors are compliant with procurement requirements. Mr. Brilhante stated that there are about four different State requirements that vendors have to comply with in order to do business in Hawaii. In response to questions referencing accidents involving the Honolulu Fire Department, Chief Rosario stated that he is confident their department is working within their training guidelines. They could use more funding for additional training. They send all officers to fire ground training. They have a good relationship with the union. Prerequisites for Water Safety were changed. Now, applicants only need a driver's license and to pass the agility test. They provide the training. • Emergency Operations Division ✓ Hazmat: There was a chlorine release incident at the BEI facility. An AAR will be held with those involved to identify lessons learned and how to make improvements. They had a couple incidents at PGV. He believes that PGV needs to take a more active role in monitoring and showing their presence. Support Services Division ✓ Volunteer Training: The captain's meeting will be on November 19 in Volcano. ✓ EMS Bureau: All 8 MICT students passed the requirements and attained permanent National Registry and State of Hawaii Paramedic License. This is the first class in the last decade to have 100% completion. 16 HFD personnel have expressed interest in the next MICT class targeted for August 2017.