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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBoard Packet for FC Meeting 10-23-25 tY_os !% Gerald Kosaki,Chair C.Kimo Alameda,Ph.D. �,y,�r.. Steven Hirakami,Vice Chair Mayor / Brian Cushnie,Member Les Hanano,Member Shon Magsalin,Member Wesley Mattos,Member �rF"o 'M►'w Wayne Perrin Jr.,Member Rick Porter,Member COUNTY OF HAWAVI Carlene Wolf,Member Fire Commission 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 9 Hilo,Hawaii 96720 Phone: (808)932-2950 Fax: (808)932-2949 AGENDA Notice is hereby given of the following matters to be considered by the Fire Commission of the County of Hawaii in accordance with the provisions of section 92-7, Hawaii Revised Statutes. DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2025 TIME: 9:00 A.M. PLACE: WEST HAWAI`I CIVIC CENTER, BUILDING A COUNCIL CHAMBERS 74-5044 ANE KEOHOKALOLE HWY., KAILUA-KONA, HI CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS Statements from the public regarding any particular item on the agenda will be taken now or at the time the particular item is called to order. APPROVAL OF MINUTES • September 25, 2025, regular session. FIRE CHIEF'S REPORT • State of Department and Highlights • Budget • Human Resources • Emergency Operations Division • Support Services Division • Capital Improvements • Chief's Briefing UNFINISHED BUSINESS • Review and discussion regarding Fire Chief Todd's annual evaluation form, with possible action to approve the form with amendments. Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Hawaii Fire Commission Meeting Agenda October 23, 2025 Page 2 • Under Hawaii County Charter (HCC), Section 7-4.6(c), the commission will receive updates and discuss the progress of the rescue watercraft operator training program. NEW BUSINESS • Discussion regarding the previously submitted letter concerning the commission secretary position. At a previous meeting, the commission reviewed and approved a letter regarding the secretary position, which was subsequently submitted to the Mayor's Office, the Hawaii Fire Department, and the Department of Human Resources. No response was received. The commission wishes to revisit the matter. • The commission will establish a permitted interaction group (PIG) to investigate issues related to funding, procurement methods, and the selection of an appropriate survey tool for use in the evaluation process of the Fire Chief, allowing department employees to provide feedback on the performance of the department head. This item is being reintroduced to comply with Sunshine Law requirements, as it was previously added by amendment at the August 28, 2025, meeting. AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING • The commission will discuss and make decisions regarding what items to place on the agenda for its meeting on Thursday, November 20, 2025. ANNOUNCEMENTS The commission's next monthly meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 9.00 a.m., at the County Building, Council Chambers, Suite 1401, 25 Aupuni St., Hilo, HI. ADJOURNMENT Submittinq Testimony: Those wishing to testify in person should register with the Commission Secretary at the meeting. Those submitting written testimony at the meeting should bring 10 copies for distribution. Testimony may be submitted by (1) mail to Fire Commission 101 Pauahi St., Suite 9, Hilo, HI 96720; or (2) by email to Charisse.Correa@hawaiipolice.gov. Please submit separate testimony for each item. All oral and written testimony will be public record. Notice to Lobbyists: If you are a lobbyist, you must register with the Hawaii County Clerk within five days of becoming a lobbyist [Article 15, Section 2-91.3(b), Hawaii County Code]. A lobbyist means "any individual engaged for pay or other consideration who spends more than five hours in any month or $275 in any six-month period for the purpose of attempting to influence legislative or administrative action by communicating or urging others to communicate with public officials." [Article 15, Section 2-91.3(a) (6), Hawai`i County Code] Registration forms and expenditure report documents are available at the Office of the County Clerk, 25 Aupuni St., Room 1402, Hilo. Hawaii Fire Commission Meeting Agenda October 23, 2025 Page 3 Board Packet: Pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes §92-7.5, the board packet provided to members of this board for this meeting is available for public inspection three business days before the meeting date, during regular business hours at the Hilo Office located at 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 9, Hilo, HI 96720. Special Assistance: The in-person location for this meeting is accessible to persons with disabilities. If you require an accommodation or auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability, contact the Commission's secretary by phone at (808) 932-2950 or by email at Charisse.Correa@hawaiipolice.gov as soon as possible, preferably three (3) days before the meeting date. Requests made as early as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this Agenda is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy. HAWAI`I FIRE COMMISSION REGULAR SESSION MINUTES SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 HAWAI`I COUNTY BUILDING, COUNCIL CHAMBERS 25 AUPUNI ST., SUITE 1401, HILO, HI UNAPPROVED MINUTES These minutes are DRAFT minutes. The commission has not voted to accept them. Changes may/may not be made prior to their adoption at the next meeting. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL Chair Kosaki called the meeting to order at 9.00 a.m. Present: Gerald Kosaki, Chair Steven Hirakami, Vice Chair Wayne Perrin Jr., Commissioner Les Hanano, Commissioner Shon Magsalin, Commissioner Wesley Mattos, Commissioner Rick Porter, Commissioner Carlene Wolf, Commissioner Absent: Brian Cushnie, Commissioner A quorum was present. Also present: Kazuo Todd, Fire Chief Daniel Volpe, Deputy Fire Chief Lono Lindsey, Battalion Chief Bradley Young, Battalion Chief Sinclair Salas-Ferguson, Deputy Corporation Counsel Charisse Correa, Secretary PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS There were none. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes for the August 28, 2025, regular session were approved. FIRE CHIEF'S REPORT Chief Todd highlighted items from the Fire Chief's Report. A detailed report is on file. He noted that some data is unavailable due to the county's transition to a new system. • Fiscal & Grants: The total department budget is approximately $76.8 million, with about $12.8 million (16.74%) expended year-to-date (YTD). A formal offer was received for the FY25 SAFER grant, which is a $4.3 million grant, not $1.3 million as stated in the written report. The FY25 HMGP-PF grant for power redundancy is an $11 million grant, not $3.2 million for structural mitigation as listed. Brush trucks from the 23 CDBG grant are expected by October 9. Trucks and a mobile service trailer from the 24 CDBG-MIT grant have arrived and are being outfitted. The bid for the Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 25, 2025 Page 2 mobile command vehicle was pulled by finance for specification review and will be put back out for bid. (Vice Chair Hirakami arrived at 9.04 a.m.) • Human Resources: There are currently 41 total vacancies in the department. Numerous recruitment processes are underway. The department promoted its first female Operations Battalion Chief in the history of HFD. The report's data on internal investigations was corrected; there are five active investigations, not zero, and the average completion time is closer to 90 days, not five. The department is considering using external investigators to expedite the process. • Emergency Operations: Salaries and wages total $34,967,000, and current expenditures are at $7.5 million. The target expenditure rate is 20.8%, and they're currently at 21.66%, largely due to an active fire season, particularly in Hamakua, which has experienced 80 fires compared to the typical 30 for this time of year. In August, the division responded to 2,692 calls: 104 fire calls, 1,908 EMS calls, and 608 classified as "other." Year-to-date, the department has responded to 21,889 calls and is on track for approximately 31,000 by the end of the year. The "other" category, representing about 25% of total calls, includes welfare checks, lift assists, and other non-fire or EMS public service responses. Average response times in August were 9 minutes and 13 seconds for EMS, and 12 minutes and 54 seconds for Fire. There were 36 wildland fires, burning a total of 58 acres, and six structure fires (49 year-to-date). • Special Operations: OCE is at $161,000, and equipment expenditures are at $192,000. Aircraft operations achieved 90% uptime in August, meeting the department's goal of maintaining over 90% (93.3% year-to-date). There was a discussion regarding the minimum proficiency training requirements for Rescue and HAZMAT personnel for August. A discrepancy in the report was noted between the year-to-date EMS call count (15,434) and the AILS transport count (16,513). This was likely due to a data entry error. • Ocean Safety: Salaries and wages total $3.9 million, with approximately 18.53% expended, compared to a target of 20.83%, due to staffing vacancies. In August, there were 323,569 beach visitors, with 235 preventable actions, 202 minor medical aids, five major medical aids requiring transport, and 34 rescues, for a year-to-date total of 458. Currently, there are three rescue watercraft operators, with a goal of nine. The department aims to staff the towers at greater than 80%; current staffing levels are at 75%. • EMS: Salaries and wages are at 18.16%, below the target of 20.83%. The Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC) rate for August was 4.8% (year-to-date 7.3%). The Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 25, 2025 Page 3 EMS Branch conducted 1,927 transports in August. Four new paramedics completed their training, and five more began the program during the month. EMS continues its collaboration with the Hawaii Opioid Initiative and participated in a three-day FEMA-supported enhanced sports and special events incident management training. The branch is also implementing the updated American Heart Association algorithms for CPR in anticipation of upcoming changes. EMS store supply orders for August totaled 68, with approximately $44,000 in sales. • Training Services Branch: Training addressed a possible contamination issue with SCBA bottles. The 54t" recruit class is completing the requirements of FF1 ProBoard certification. Salary and wages are currently at 13.45%, with the goal of 20.83%. Chief Todd stepped out briefly for a meeting, and Deputy Chief Volpe presented the remainder of the Chief's report. • Volunteer Services Section: Salary and wages are at 12.98% with a goal of 20.83%. there was one volunteer added this month, with a total of 112. There's been positive growth. Compliance with online training continues to be a challenge due to limited access to technology, as some stations lack electricity and internet. Efforts are underway to encourage online training where possible and to provide in-person training as a supplement when needed. They've been actively working to maintain at least one spare qualified driver at each volunteer station. • Fire Prevention Section: Salaries and wages are at 19.06%, slightly below the target of 20.83%. They're currently fully staffed. In August, Prevention conducted three inspections, oversaw two public events, reviewed 46 plans, investigated two fires, and handled two complaints. The average plan review time was 10.5 days, meeting the program objective of reviewing plans in less than 14 days, an outcome that benefits the community. Public education goals require a minimum of two sessions per month, and the division met this goal with two sessions in August. • Auxiliary Services Section: Salaries and wages had an adjusted appropriation of $446,000, with $77,000 expended to date. The section is currently staffed, though the lower expenditure may reflect a previous vacancy. A fire maintenance worker was recently hired and has been on the job for approximately one month. In August, a total of 131 orders were processed, with gross products sent to the department totaling $81,000 (year-to-date $134,000). • Vehicle Maintenance: A new fire maintenance worker, Jon Mitsuda, has been hired and has been addressing the backlog of equipment repairs. In August, there were 279 repairs, 42 service calls, and 15 contracted work or tows. An agreement was made with the Department of Environmental Management to store disposal-ready vehicles at the Hilo landfill, helping to free up space at the maintenance shop. Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 25, 2025 Page 4 • Emergency Communications: The section remains understaffed, with nine dispatchers currently working and four additional hires expected to begin in December. In August, there were 2,627 calls, with an average duration of 185 seconds; 86.4% of calls were answered in under 10 seconds. The objective for Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) protocol compliance is 70% or higher; current compliance is 26% (45% year-to-date). Low staffing levels continue to impact key performance metrics, including call processing times and EMD protocol compliance. • Snapshots and Stories: Emergency Operations Highlights: Responded to numerous large brushfires across the island, a 1,000-gallon propane leak at the Kekuanaoa wastewater plant, and a hiker rescue in Waimanu. Deputy Chief Volpe highlighted the critical role of volunteers, whose ability to respond outside their assigned districts is a significant asset during major incidents. Fire Prevention: The section continues its public outreach and education efforts. The drone program has proven invaluable for providing real-time intelligence, aerial mapping, and data collection. New Apparatus: Three new brush trucks (5, 11, and 17) have arrived. Truck 17 has already been placed in service. Safety Program: An after-action review of the July 29th tsunami warning is underway. Several policies are under review or in development, including for OSHA two-in/two-out, pre-planning for vacant/hazardous buildings (Code-H), and severe event response. A new program is being established for NFPA-required ground ladder testing. In August, there were five incident/accident reports, two vehicle/property damage reports, and two toxic exposure reports. The monthly Safety Committee meeting was held. Ocean Safety: The Junior Lifeguard Program took second place in the state competition on Maui. Ocean Safety provided water safety support for the Hawaii County/Okinawa Haari boat race and participated in the Duke's Ocean Festival Lifeguard Challenge. The commission referred to the Fire Chief's report and asked questions regarding its contents. Discussion included errors in some data, such as EMS call numbers, as well as ALS and BLS transport figures. Additionally, Operating Expenditures (OCE) numbers were missing. Deputy Chief Volpe explained that the new Oracle reporting system has made it challenging to generate reports, an issue that is occurring county-wide. Recess was called at 10.15 a.m., and the meeting reconvened at 10.28 a.m. 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 Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 25, 2025 Page 6 support training efforts. The Sayre Foundation funded the $5,000 cost for initial operator certifications. The department also entered a new U.S. Lifesaving Association (USLA) recertification cycle and will participate in a national certification conference in mid- October. Chair Kosaki inquired if the training curriculum is finalized and emphasized the urgency of implementing the program. BC Young agreed and explained that the curriculum is set to go, and noted that, with the anticipated reopening of Isaac Hale Beach Park, a high volume of activity is expected, as well as conflict. He reported nine tower vacancies and explained that implementing RWC training could temporarily impact staffing, as it would require removing up to eight personnel from line duty during training. Commissioner Hirakami inquired about personnel, asking how many vacancies exist and how many individuals are qualified to assume the role. BC Young responded that there are currently three operator vacancies. The goal is to train six candidates, allowing them to maintain baseline staffing at the towers while conducting training. This would fill the existing vacancies and provide three additional certified operators to cover as needed. AGENDA ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING Chair Kosaki asked if there were any suggestions for the next agenda and stated that he would like to continue the discussion on the rescue watercraft training. Chief Todd stated that at the next meeting, he would like to bring all chief officers who oversee specific sections of the department to present their reports. This would provide the commission an opportunity to meet the chief officers, allow for leadership development, and enable the commission to ask questions regarding their reports. Vice Chair Hirakami noted that the current report did not include OCE data. Chief Todd explained that due to issues with the new county-wide computer system, they are currently unable to generate those reports and have no available OCE data at this time. He was unsure when the reporting functions would be restored. DCC Salas-Ferguson reminded the commission that at the previous meeting, the agenda had been amended to include discussion on the development and implementation of an evaluation process allowing Fire Department employees to provide feedback on the performance of the department head. A permitted interaction group (PIG) was formed to explore the matter further, consisting of Chair Kosaki, Vice Chair Hirakami, and Commissioner Cushnie. However, he explained that he's been told that the agenda should not have been amended at that time. To correct this, the item will be properly included on the next meeting agenda to allow for public comment, and the commission will revisit the matter. Commissioner Wolf noted that the chair had previously drafted and sent a letter to the Mayor's Office regarding the secretary position and requested a follow-up on the Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 25, 2025 Page 7 outcome. Chief Todd stated that the letter would have been directed to Micah Alameda, head of Boards and Commissions in the Mayor's Office, and suggested inviting him to the next meeting to discuss the matter. He added that the decision ultimately depends on funding and was uncertain where the Mayor's Office stands on the issue. The commission agreed to include this topic on the next agenda and to invite Mr. Alameda to attend. Commissioner Wolf emphasized the need for feedback, noting that the matter has been pending for several years. ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Kosaki announced that two Hawaii Fire Department teams were recognized in the Department of Health's "Unknown Sample of the Month" hazmat competition. Kaumana Station 4, B Shift, received second runner-up, and Makalei Station 21, C Shift, received first runner-up. Chair Kosaki also thanked the commissioners who attended the recent Sayre's Foundation Awards Dinner, noting the event's strong display of community generosity. Chief Todd added that the foundation funded the purchase of three LUCAS automated CPR devices for deployment on fire engines at remote stations: Station 17 (Laupahoehoe), Station 20 (Ocean View), and Station 15 (North Kohala). Chair Kosaki announced that the next regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 9.00 a.m. at the West Hawaii Civic Center. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 11.22 a.m. SUBMITTED BY: CHARISSE CORREA, SECRETARY APPROVED BY: 4 � . I t f% f G FIRE CHI EFS REPORT HAWAI'I FIRE DEPARTMENT 25 AUPUNI ST., SUITE 2501 , W , HILO, HAWAI'I 96720 FIRE@a HAWAIICOUNTY.GOV 2025 SEPTEMBER FISCAL YEAR 25-26 TABLE OF CONTENTS ChiefsOffice Report ............................................................................................................................... 3 FiscalBranch Report................................................................................................................................ 3 GrantsReport............................................................................................................................................. 3 HumanResources Branch Report....................................................................................................... 5 Emergency Operations Division.......................................................................................................... 7 SpecialOperations Branch.................................................................................................................... 8 OceanSafety Branch ............................................................................................................................... 8 Emergency Medical Services Branch................................................................................................. 9 TrainingServices Branch......................................................................................................................10 VolunteerServices Section..................................................................................................................11 FirePrevention Section.........................................................................................................................11 Auxiliary Services Section ....................................................................................................................12 VehicleMaintenance Section.............................................................................................................13 Emergency Communications Branch...............................................................................................13 SNAPSHOTS AND STORIES.....................................................................................................................14 fall 2025 promotional ceremony.......................................................................................................14 Emergency Operations Highlights ...................................................................................................15 AviationOperations...............................................................................................................................15 Notable Rescue Responses:................................................................................................................16 OceanSafety Highlights.......................................................................................................................16 Volunteersin Action!.............................................................................................................................16 FirePrevention highlights ...................................................................................................................17 SafetyProgram........................................................................................................................................18 Conferencesand Connection.............................................................................................................19 StayConnected!......................................................................................................................................20 CHIEFS OFFICE REPORT Section Report by Chiefs Office Program Budget Objectives September YTD Goal Maintain >95% current policies, procedures, and No Data No Data >95% MOU, MOA, MAA. FISCAL BRANCH REPORT Section Report by Fire Accountant IV Program Budget Objectives QTR YTD Goal Maintain budget variance within ±10% of No data No data ±10% projections for each major cost center per QTR. Lead monthly budget meetings No data No data 12 Budget Adj Appr YTD Exp % Used Goal Total Budget $76,853,168 $12,867,787 16.74% GRANTS REPORT Section Report by Fiscal Division Program Measures September YTD Goal Dollar value of grants applied for $2,663,506.00 $7,060,254.00 $5,000,000 Dollar value of grants received $2,678,274.60 $2,678,274.60 $1,000,000 Grants Purpose Award Spent YTD Update 23 CDBG (3) Brush Trucks $625,693 $625,693 Delivered and paid (3) Brush Trucks IFB 4700 $891,420 $891,420 Rebel Strike LLC CDBG- (Delivered); Mobile Service MIT Trailer IFB 4701 (Delivered $50,575 $50,575 Hawaii Specialty Veh 9/15/25); Mobile Command Vehicle (in bid process) $1,000,000 $1,000,000 Out for Bid FY23 AFG Hazard Zone (IDLH) 16.28% spent as of (08/2024- Incident. Command and a $488,722 $79,564 6/30/25. CoHnect 08/2026) Control Training Program project pending. 23 VFA Bid awarded to Orchid Isle IFB 4520 Ford for 2 Brush Trucks. $278,590 $73,041 Delivery pending. County match $278,590 24 VFA Supplies and equipment $317,800 $159,533 Pending approval of continue to arrive time extension Leleiwi Surveyor Jr. lifeguard tower Delivery expected in Lifeguard furnished by Newport early 2026. Tower Laminates $54,785 $0 (Fair Share Funds) Fair Share Allotment request for funds Allotment request in Fund to design a Mechanic Shop $684,000 $0 process 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 3 Grant Name Submission Purpose Est. Request Deadline FY25 SAFER 4/20/2025 Personnel 12 firefighters positions $2,700,000 FY25 AFG 5/20/2025 Radios 1,750,000 FY25 FP&S 5/20/2025 Prevention equipment 50,000 FY25 HMGP — PF 8/20/2025 Electrical Power Redundancy— 11 $11,000,000 stations Program Highlights: Grants Project Accounting: The only project currently created in the FY26 CoHnect System is the EMS Grant. Once CoHnect has set up projects for each grant, the system should provide more complete and accurate information for sharing and report preparation. Community Wildfire Defense Grant (CWDG) Phase 3 of the grant was awarded this month. Hawaii Fire Department Defensible Space grant proposal for $2,794,005.00 received a score of 86.67 which unfortunately did not meet the cut off for funding. Competition was high and only three CWDG grants were awarded in Hawaii. Two for community wildfire protection plans for Maui, and one for a Fire Adapted Hawaii County which will help fund Firewise coordinators positions on Hawaii Island for the next five years. This grant will be managed by HWMO. SAFER 2025 The Hawaii Fire Department has been officially awarded the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant. This grant will support the addition of new personnel to strengthen our operational capacity and reduce response times. We are currently working through the administrative and hiring processes, with the goal of bringing staff onboard by either August or February, depending on the recruitment timeline and fiscal coordination. AFG & FP&S 2025 The Hawaii Fire Department was not selected for award under this year's Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program or the Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Grant programs. While this outcome is disappointing, we remain committed to pursuing future AFG opportunities and other funding sources to support our equipment modernization and safety initiatives. 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 4 HUMAN RESOURCES BRANCH REPORT Section Report by Fire Human Resources Program Specialist FY 2025/26 Calendar Rank Recruitment Exam/PAE Assessment Notes 09/28- N/A Can begin Assistant Chief 10/7/2025 11/27/25 Battalion Chief TBD TBD TBD Operations Battalion Chief N/A N/A N/A No anticipated Prevention vacancies in FY 26-27 Battalion Chief Auxiliary N/A N/A N/A No anticipated Services vacancies in FY 26-27 Battalion Chief N/A N/A N/A No anticipated Communications vacancies in FY 26-27 No anticipated Battalion Chief EMS N/A N/A N/A vacancies in FY 26-27 No anticipated WSO V N/A N/A N/A vacancies in FY 26-27 Captain Operations 12/7/2025 2/10/2025 3/9-11/2026 No anticipated Captain TrainingN/A N/A N/A vacancies in FY 26-27 Captain Volunteer TBD TBD TBD Services No anticipated Captain Prevention N/A N/A N/A vacancies in FY 26-27 Captain TBD TBD TBD Communications No anticipated FMS III N/A N/A N/A vacancies in FY 26-27 1 employee moves WSO IV N/A N/A N/A into role 10/16/25 Fire Prevention N/A N/A N/A No anticipated Inspector II vacancies in FY 26-27 05/23- 10/26/24 10/26/25 4 employees move WSO III 06/01/25 into roles 11/16/25 Fire Equipment 10/12/2025 1/6/2026 2/24 O erator 26/2026 Fire Apparatus Trainer TBD TBD TBD Fire Prevention N/A N/A N/A No anticipated Inspector I vacancies in FY 26-27 Fire Training Specialist TBD TBD TBD 10/5/- N/A 11/07/2025 FMS II 10/14/2025 Fire Rescue Specialist TBD TBD TBD Hazardous Materials 10/19/2025 1/13/2026 3/3/2026 Tech *Version one of an annual recruitment calendar 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 5 Program Measure Month YTD Vacancy Rate Total 12% 10% Vacancy Rate Admin & Support 9 9 Vacancy Rate Fire 13 15 Vacancy Rate EMS 9 9 Vacancy Rate Communications 16 16 Vacancy Rate Ocean Safety 14 14 Program Budget Objectives Month YTD Goal Efficient response to human resource 100% of 69 100% (89) <2 Days aeries Active Avg Days Goal Average internal investigations completion 5 120+* <60 days in days Rate Avg % Yr Goal Maintain a vacancy rate below 7% 12% 10% <36 PV Active Recruitments by HFD Position Status Report Assistant Fire Chief job Posted September 28, 2025 (Internal). Fire/EMS Specialist II job Description Finalized September 30, 2025. Fire Captain Offer Accepted September 3, 2025. Start date set. Fire Equipment Operator Offer Accepted September 7, 2025. Start date set. Water Safety Officer IV Department Interviews September 12, 2025. Water Safety Officer III Department Interviews September 26, 2025. Water Safety Officer Is Candidates Selected September 30, 2025. Account Clerks Application Screening (HR/Civil Service) September 25, 2025. Clerk Ills Department Interviews September 26, 2025. Lead Fire Equipment Mechanic job Posted September 14, 2025 (Internal). Professional Trainee — Info/Edu Position Filled September 16, 2025. Specialist Professional Trainee — Grants Recruitment Delayed September 30, 2025. Fire Communications Officer I Offers Extended September 30, 2025. *Several investigations are being carried out outside of the HR Branch, which is why exact data is not available. 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 6 EMERGENCY OPERATIONS DIVISION Section Report by Assistant Chief of Operations Budget Category d Appropriation D % Used Goal Expenditures Fire 62101 S&W $34,967,374 $10,592,338 30% 29% 62102 OCE $2,092,005 No Data No Data 25% 62106 Equipment $1,900,177 No Data No Data 25% Fire - Heli S&W $644,386 No Data No Data 29% 62112+62742 OCE $862,907 No data No data 25% 62116+62746 1 Equipment $20,000 1 No data I No data 1 25% Program Budget Objectives September YTD Goal 95% of all assigned training completed 84.76% 82.81% >95% Daily Vehicle Checks 90% (OPS) 42.06% 48.63% >90% Chute time 02:12 02:12 <01:20 99% Report completion within 10 days. 98.00% 98.07% >99% Total Calls for Calendar Year 2025 September YTD % Fire 115 865 3.7% EMS 1,708 16,320 70.5% Other 632 5,946 25.8% Totals 2,455 23,131 100% Year 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 (est.) Total Calls 25,015 27,398 29,594 1 30,738 31,143 1 30,841 Program Measures Sept. % < 80 secs YTD % < 80 secs Avg. Turn out time (Fire) 02:26 12.39% 02:26 15.75% Avg. Turn out time (EMS) 02:08 16.66% 02:18 18.24% Program Measures Sept. % < 9 mins YTD % < 9 mins Avg. Response Time (Fire) 12:35 40.35% 11:34 48.38% Avg. Response Time (EMS) 1 09:12 1 58.31% 1 09:10 1 59.65% Call Type September YTD Wildland calls (140, 141, 142, 143) 36 225 Acres burned 30 392 Structure Fires (110 & 111) 10 59 Property and Contents - Loss $670,500 $4,401,325 Property and Contents - Save $1,243,700 $5,188,225 Other fires (all other 100 series) 69 581 Property and Contents - Loss $8,000 $1,029,350 Property and Contents - Save $13,995,000 $33,702,700 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 7 SPECIAL OPERATIONS BRANCH Section Report by Battalion Chief of Special Operations Budget Category d Appropriation T Ex Expenditures % Used Goal ures 6223* OCE $161,625 No data No data 25% Equipment $192,920 No data No data 25% *Sub-budget within auxiliary service budget Program Budget Objectives Month YTD Goal Aircraft Operational Uptime >90% 86% 91% > 90% Review & update SOP/SOG within cycle 0 0 >100% Arrange annual HazTech Course 0 1 per Y Maintain minimum proficiency training hours Rescue 288 784 3,000 Maintain minimum proficiency training hours Hazmat 0 296 600 Maintain minimum proficiency training hours Air Ops 0 9.2 30 OCEAN SAFETY BRANCH Section Report by Water Safety Officer V Budget Category Appropriation d ExpendituresTD % Used Goal Ocean Safety S&W $3,903,244.00 $1,004,077 26% 29% 6228 OCE $364,000 No data No data N/A Equipment $425,736 1 No data I No data I N/A Program Measures (Metrics) September YTD/# of people Number of Beach Visitors 272,808 2,399,800 Number of Preventative Actions 281 2,449 Number of Minor Medical Aids 211 1,802 Number of Major Medical Aids (Transports) 7 58 Number of Rescues 15 1497 Program Budget Objectives Current Goal Certified Rescue Water Craft Operators >9 3 9 Provide 80% staffed tower hours to daylight 75% 80% Maintain Updated Policies and Procedures (10) No Data 1 100% 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 8 EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES BRANCH Section Report by Battalion Chief of EMS Budget Category d Appropriation T Ex Expenditures % Used Goal ures EMS S&W $10,392,294 $2,484,590.64 23.91% 29% 6227 OCE $2,767,608 $20,309.61 0.73% 25% ----------------------- Equipment $1,778,900 $0 0% 25% Program Measures September YTD Rosc Rate 4% 6.9% Call Volume ALS Transport 937 17,763 Call Volume BLS Transport 420 4,074 Program Budget Objectives September YTD Goal Less than 10% paramedic Vacancy rate 8% (4) 8% <15% Quality review of 95% of Critical Calls 15% 20% 100% Maintain a fleet of >8 Spare medics 11 11 >8 Spare Program Highlights: EMS Branch • The EMS Branch met with the Mayor's Office and Office of Housing & Community Development to explore integrating Hawaii Fire Department's Community Paramedicine Program to support the County's at-risk residents. • Hawai`i Life Flight conducted a meeting to discuss integration of their services for interfacility transfers, particularly for cardiac transports between Queen's North Hawaii Community Hospital and Hilo Benioff Medical Center. • EMS Branch personnel assisted the Prevention Branch at the Four Seasons Health & Wellness Fair on September 81h • On September 181h, EMS Branch personnel participated in the Hilo Airport Triennial Exercise. • On September 201h, EMS Branch personnel provided standby medical support for the Alzheimer's Association Walk at Liliuokalani Gardens. • The two replacement EMS SUVs have departed Honolulu and are expected to arrive on island shortly. • EMS Shopify Store — Supply Orders Data for the Month of September: 56 orders, approximately 48K in gross order sales 2025 SEPTEMBER PAGE 9 TRAINING U �� U �� �_ SERVICES �� �� �BRANCH �� U ����kUU�� UU�� �� �� ����kU�� �. �� Section Report by Assistant Chief ofOperations Budget Category Adi YTD % Used Goal Appropriation Expenditures 6224 OCE $236,060 No data No data N/A ----------------------- I Equipment $2,500 No data No data N/A Program Budget Objectives FF I & 2 Wildland Driver Training Ensure all recruits graduate In progress Spring 2026 Spring 2026 with minimum certifications Program Budget Objectives September YTD Goal Professional Development 46 personnel 68 50 personnel personnel Incident Command Training Spring 2026 No Data 100% compliance Structural Firefighting Training 15 personnel 15 75 personnel personnel Wildland Firefighting Training 3 personnel 3 personnel pending funding Program Highlights: ��f Training Branch / /���| ||���| |��� � � • The month of September marked the start of the 54th Recruit Class, which began with instructional chapters covering fire hose, hose operations, fire suppression, and salvage/overhaul. Skills training for the month focused on hose deployments (rig to door and door to seat), nozzle operations, and hose management based on the Nozzle Forward curriculum, emphasizing the primary functions of Engine Companies. The final two vvggk3 of September were dedicated to preparing recruits for Pro Board skills testing scheduled for October 3rd. • Lesson plans, outlines, PovvgrPoint presentations, skill sheets, and safety guidelines were developed for the fourth quarter Company-Level Training. This quarter's curriculum includes Forcible Entry, Structural Search, R|T Basics, and the VVildland RT-130 Module 4. The total training requirement for Operations during the fourth quarter is 20 hours. • The Engine Company Operations cadre also prepared to deliver the Engine Operations program to Companies 9, 14, and 16. Preparations included tgach- back3, skill reviews, and logistical coordination. The first class i3 scheduled for B Shift on September 30th. • Additionally, Training Branch personnel attended several professional development opportunities in September, including a one-week |(-S 300/400 course, as well as a two-week VVildland Operations course hosted by the P6hakuloa Fire Department. 2025 1 SEPTEK4BER PAGE 10 VOLUNTEER SERVICES SECTION Section Report by Senior Volunteer Services Captain Budget Category Appropriation d Expenditures % Used Goal Fire Volunteer S&W $248,464.00 $50,674 20% 29% 6225 OCE No data No data No data 25% ------------------------ Equipment 0.00 0.00 0.00% No data Program Measures Added this Total month Total Volunteers 0 112 Program Budget Objectives September YTD Goal Apply to two or more grants per year 0 1 >2 Manage, and Expend Grants Completely 0% 90% 100% Compliance of Online Training of Volunteers 1% 45% 75% Maintain 1 spare qualified driver per volunteer 0 32 51 station FIRE PREVENTION SECTION Section Report by Battalion Chief of Fire Prevention Budget Category Appropriation d Expenditures % Used Goal Fire Prevention S&W $1,148,168 $252072.42 25.15 29% -------------------------------- 6222 OCE $44,184 No Data No data 25% Program Measures September YTD Last Year Comp Inspections - Occupancy 36 60 N/A* Public Education Events 6 31 N/A* Plans Reviewed 46 407 N/A* Fire Investigations 3 6 N/A* Complaints Investigated 4 22 N/A* Average Plan Review Time in Days 10.5 10.5 N/A* Program Budget Objectives Sept. YTD Goal Average plans reviewed < 14 days 9.9 days 10.5 days <14 Days Public Education min 2 a month 6 31 24 Maintain CFIT Designation for 2 personnel min 1 1 2 Fire Inspection of High Hazard >6 per month 6 15 72 / year EPR property list input @a 60 updates a month 1 36 1 159 720 / ear *YTD totals were not available as a new EPR system changeover occurred 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 11 AUXILIARY SERVICES SECTION Section Report by.-Battalion Chief of Auxiliary Services Budget Category Appropriation d Expenditures % Used Goal Auxiliary S&W $446,102 $115,796 26% 29% 6223 OCE $1,469,520 No Data No Data No Data ------------------------ Equipment $809,020 No Data No Data I No Data Program Measures September YTD Monthly Total Order 118 373 Gross Product Sent to Dept $35,311 $191,888 total Number of variants available in warehouse 408 No Data Variants Items in stock 331 No Data Program Budget Objectives September YTD Goal Expenditure of OCE budget to 99% by end of No Data No Data 99% fiscal Encumbrance of Equip budget to 90% by end of No Data No Data 90% @a second quarter 2nd In stock percent > 90% for all warehouse 81% No Data >90% variants Average fulfillment within 10 working days or 6.7 days No Data <10 days less* *This does not account for weekends or holidays(date ordered to fulfillment + 3.5day5 for delivery) 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 12 VEHICLE MAINTENANCE SECTION Section Report by Chief Mechanic Budget Category d Appropriation T Ex Expenditures % Used Goal ures Auxiliary S&W $606,893 No Data No Data 29% 62322 OCE $383,792 No Data No Data 25% 62326 Equipment $25,000 No Data No Data 25% *sub-.budget within auxiliaryseruice.budget Program Measures Month YTD LY YTD Number of Repairs 283 827 Next month Service Calls 40 120 Next month Contracted Work or Tows 18 57 Next month DOT inspections 1 0 1 134 1 Next month Program Budget Objectives Month YTD Goal Log 100% of vehicle work orders into EPR No Data No Data 100% Fireworks EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS BRANCH Section Report by Battalion Chief of Communications Budget Category Appropriation d ExpendituresTD % Used Goal Auxiliary S&W $1,853,786 $200,001 11% 29% 6223 OCE $69,294 No Data No Data 25% ---------------------- Equipment $0 No Data No Data N/A *sub-.budget within auxiliaryseruice.budget Program Measures Admin Total (nonemer enc ) # of calls Avg duration % answered # of calls # of calls < 10 sec 2486 191 87% 1 2044 1 4530 Program Budget Objectives September YTD GOAL EMD Protocol Compliance 70%* or greater 39% 43% >70% 90% of 911 calls answered in <10 seconds 87% 87% 90% Average time to process 911 call <180 191 s 186s <180 sec Time from Call to Dispatch <60 seconds @a 90% 133s 133s <60 sec *Compliance goal to increase 5 o per year 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 13 SNAPSHOTS AND STORIES FALL 2025 PROMOTIONAL CEREMONY On Sept. 24, a promotional ceremony was held in Hilo recognizing five personnel who have recently advanced in rank. The event marked a historic milestone for the department, celebrating the promotion of our first-ever female Battalion Chief of Operations and the first-ever Ocean Safety Chief in the department's 137-year history. Family, friends, and colleagues gathered to honor the achievements and continued dedication of these individuals to the safety and service of our island community. Congratulations! VIA 7 r o l01"" IB i' lll�/ r yr r ?i t / 1 / I II �. a14I t I // fJ 2025 SEPTEMBER PAGE 14 EMERGENCY OPERATIONS HIGHLIGHTS Battalion 1 , East Hawaii • 9/5 Brush Fire: Ka'ala/District 17, Inc #21074, >600 acre brush fire of mixed, deep- seated fuels continues to burn within fire breaks at 90% containment. HFD remains on scene. Initial operations conducted by Co17, 8, T09, T03, C1, C2, Vol 8A, Vol 913, Vol 9A, Vol 713, T15, BT1. Assistance provided by DOFAW, NPS, National Guard, DPW, Salvation Army, and AT&T • 9/23 Structure Fire in Waipio Valley Dist.8. Inc #22553 640 Sq ft house burnt to the ground. Fire extinguished by Co 8 and Co 9 with water supply being drafted from a nearby river. Cause of the fire unknown. • 9/25 Brush Fire On Lehua St. Dist.8. Honoka'a. Inc# 22838, four acres burned. Fire extinguished by Co.8, BT9, Vol 8A, Vol 9B and C2. Cause of fire unknown. • 9/30 Overturned bus on Hwy 19 at the 25 mile marker in Dist.17. Inc# 23094 , 30 passengers involved. Mitigated by Co.17, E01, Co.2, M01, M03, M08, M09, AMR1, EMS1, and EMS 5 (Helicopter flight patterns on i Mauna Kea Fire f ° Battalion Z, West Hawaii � L above Pa'auilo) ,�� • 10/2 Structure Fire: Helani Church/District 12, Inc #23250. Historic place of worship foundya�, fully involved with partial collapse. No injuries, cause unknown. ,�d t AVIATION OPERATIONS If Chopper 1 — 34.2 flight hours � � Chopper 2 — 22.8 flight hours � �� � ' Total combined: 57 hours $ f ° Fire — 51.1 flight hours were dedicated to fighting brush fire in the vicinity of: � y • Paauilo Mauna Kea slopes) • Honokaa � • Pohakuloa Training Area ' Rescue — 1 rescue at Black Sands by Chopper 1 Training — 0.3 flight hours for training of fire fighter personnel Other—The remaining time was dedicated to: • Repositioning Choppers for maintenance • Post-maintenance operational check flights DLNR shark survey at Magic Sands i ii i l lei fJi i r� Jir,,�P1u` J r��`l%r�������G�a)�h�rl✓ ro«�dh%Ly r'{"t`;!/f rr s/� F r,i�ia f �l Sidi` y�1 i i � /✓ di Nr e Ss I", t n✓r�,mi�� �� '/g�r ! ����I�4'I;��F9,b�ti���tr�ll������ai�� (�r�r,s � ��ol�i✓�,�i�Fmi""'���u n P 2025 SEPTEMBER PAGE 15 NOTABLE RESCUE RESPONSES: • Two Co. 2 responses for reported swimmer in distress and one response from Co 2 for a boat in distress • One Co 7 response for reported boat in distress. Boat towed back to harbor via Rescue Boat 07 OCEAN SAFETY HIGHLIGHTS The HFD's Rescue Watercraft Operator (RWCO) Training Program Solicitation Memo is currently in Final review and expected to be submitted to Ocean Safety Personnel by 10/17/2025 end of workday. On 10/03/2025, the application for the HFD RWC Program Policy has been submitted and is awaiting approval from the United States Lifeguard Association (USLA) recertification process. The expected date to commence with the RWCO training program is after December 1st coinciding with the onboarding of 10 WSO Is. VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION ! 1-A (Pepe`ekeo) 6 alarms and assisted with Ka`ala on a Saturday and Sunday. Fit tested and received respirators. Brush truck back in service. Mahalo to Maluliku General Contracting for clearing area around the property. 5-C (Fern Forest) Has now become 19-B starting October 1. 5-D (Fern Acres) 5 fire calls, company training, driver training, and a couple new members. J 7-113 (Kalaoa) � Responded to 3 incidents, performed vehicle maintenance, and trained on pumping operations and wildland training. 8-A (Pa`auilo) Ongoing brush fire. , 9-B (Kanehoa) Responded to 7 fires, conducted 2 WUI trainings, and have 3 more personnel looking to be added to their roster. 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 16 ' �' !, 11-A (Na`alehu) 24+ years volunteer Ron Ebert is u�! retiring. 16-B (Pu uanahulu) 27 man hours of driver training, wet G drills, and vehicle maintenance and pre-checks. 19-A (Volcano) Company 5-C has now become 19-B. 20-A (HOVE) Responded to multiple fires over the month, including structure fires, brush fires, and unauthorized burns. FIRE PREVENTION HIGHLIGHTS Community Outreach, Events & Media Engagement September 4: We participated in the Kapiolani Elementary School Health and Wellness Fair September 8: We ran a booth at the Four Seasons Health and Wellness Fair September 16: Captain Goo was a speaker at the National Association of State Foresters 2025 Annual Meeting. This was a presentation for our Drone program with the leadership and developers from NOVA software. r Fire Investigations 9/11: District 15, Inc# 250021520, Residential Fire 9/19: District 19, Inc# 250021837, Residential Fire9/30: District 12, Inc# 250022865, Multifamily complex Fire Rµ �„���jX rrrTy i Rti��) l ('�?9�1 ''✓�h�� r ✓ i r 1 mG i6 smy r 6ia rta of �^l i i a ,� p✓ r �J 's i N^n�rrpX&fl ��r^ee � miry�Vl �f bpi � o,O �n�kF 2025 SEPTEMBER PAGE 17 UAS Program Dist.17 (09/05/2025-Present) Inc#250021074: HFD's Matrice 30T �fl was utilized for a 360 aerial view of the brushfire area. Infrared scans and searches were conducted around the perimeter of the findings. Incident maps and live footage were shared with the EOC. The Drone team was deployed multiple times throughout the month, as the incident went from a short to long duration incident. SAFETY PROGRAM COOP • Activation —Tsunami Warning on 7.29.30: After Action Review drafted; review ongoing with F2. • October 7, 2025 exercise postponed due to scheduling conflicts. New date/time TBD. • Established an Everbridge COOP group (Admin). • Updated Tsunami maps from Civil Defense uploaded to COOP folder in SharePoint. Procurement of NFPA Ground Ladder Testing Equipment/Supplies • Ongoing process; sole source request approved by Purchasing. B202 submitted to Fiscal. Maui FD Health & Safety Site Visit • Site visit conducted on September 19th. • Observed differences in Health & Safety functions, including NFPA 1582 compliant AME process integrated into their Respiratory Protection Program. • Visited multiple facilities, including MFD'sjoint State Fire (ARFF) Training facility; exchanged ideas and networked on various safety challenges. Draft OSHA Two-In/Two-Out Policy • Under review by various Chiefs — comments due October 31 St Draft CODE-H Procedure (Abandoned/Vacant Building Program) • Still looking for a station/shift to trial/test the concept. AAR— Boiling Pots Drive Training • BC Lindsey finalized AAR with recommendations submitted to F1/F2. • Coordination with Training & National Fallen Firefighters Foundation • Seeking to host "Taking Care of Our Own" (LODD) training in the 1st quarter of 2026. • Severe Event Response Team Training • Attended at Honolulu Fire on September 3rd &4th. 2025 1 SEPTEMBER PAGE 18 • Draft procedure developed and sent to the Safety Committee for review. If approved SERT would replace AAR process. Respiratory Protection Program • Awaiting response from PSI (Oahu) to replace Kunkle valves on electric Mako unit. • US Forest Service updated guidance for respiratory use for wildland firefighters: Recommends voluntary use of N95 during non-strenuous activities or intermittently to mitigate respiratory hazards like particle exposure from smoke; first commitment to widespread provision of masks. • HIOSH Boiler & Elevator Inspector identified an intermittently malfunctioning on/off switch on the Bauer TCOM breathing air compressor at Station 10 (Pahoa); Notice of Violation issued with deadline for correction on 11/30/25; awaiting response from PSI to determine warranty status. Safety Concerns and Inspections • Awaiting results of requested mold testing at Stations #4 & #5. • Visited Station 19 (Volcano) on September 16th. • Investigated safety concern at Station #2: Aviation refuel trailer parked too close to hangar; trailer was temporarily relocated and in process of being repositioned appropriately. Incident/Accident Reports • Seven new Incident/Accident reports, one new Vehicle/Property Damage report, and two Toxic exposure reports received during September. • joint Safety Committee • Meeting held on September 17th; agenda and previous minutes posted to SharePoint. CONFERENCES AND CONNECTION Chief Todd served as a guest speaker at the Hawaii State Association of Counties (HSAC) Conference, hosted by Hawaii Island County Councilmembers at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort Sept. 11-12. Chief Todd's presentation focused on building a Fire-Adapted Hawaii, highlighting collaborative efforts among counties, state agencies, and community partners to strengthen wildfire resilience across the islands. 2025 SEPTEMBER PAGE 19 pow, Chief Todd was invited as a uest s eakerfor the University of Hawai i at Hilo s Kuleana and Community Talk Story series on Sept. 19. The discussion centered on f A 9 our shared kuleana and the actionable steps we can take toward wildfire resilience and disaster preparedness. STAY CONNECTED ! t�� 77N n. See what we're up to on social media! Follow the Hawaii Fire Department for the latest updates, photos, and behind-the-scenes looks at our work in the community. Check out our recent posts! END REPORT 2025 SEPTEMBER PAGE 20 CONFIDENTIA Personnel Repo FIRE CHIEF EVALUATION Hawai'i County Fire Commission FIRE CHIEF: Evaluation Period: Date of Evaluation: INIMIUK-im Article VI I, Chapter 4, Section 7-4.6(d) of the Hawaii County Charter (2018) provides that the Fire Commission shall evaluate at least annually, the performance of the Fire Chief and submit a report to the Mayor, Managing Director, and County Council. This evaluation is transmitted under confidential cover, and the Fire Commission requests that, as a personnel matter, this evaluation only be released with the concurrence of the Fire Chief. 'The performance of the Chief is, based on, six elements: 1. Leadership 2. Communication 3. Strategic Planning 4, Resource Allocation 5. Safety 6. Emergency Management Operations The goal of the evaluation is to provide a well-balanced and candid summary of the aggregate performance of Chief Todd for the evaluation period. EYALUADQUIURWOURE AND RRQIQEU Each commissioner is afforded the opportunity to provide input for each category, and it is included in this evaluation. Commissioners draw their input from research, personal observations, interactions with and observations of the Fire Chief, and from input received from sources within and outside the Hawail Fire Department throughout the evaluation period. The Commission reviews the Chiefs overview report of the department from July 1, 2024 to June 30 2025. The Commission also reviews the Chief's 2024/25 Program 'Budget (1 year plan); Strategic Plan (3-5 year plan); Master Plan (10 year plan); Standards of cover, Community Risk Assessment Report. Scores by individual commissioners will be averaged to result in a final score for each element. Scores for all performance elements will be averaged to result in a score for the Chief's overall annual performance. Please review the Fire Chief's reports for 2024/2025 and give any input in regards to accomplishments, challenges, and goals. Each Commissioner grades each of the performance elements on the following scale: 5 — Outstanding 4 — Superior 3 — Satisfactory 2 — Needs improvement 1 — Unacceptable PgBE-QRMANCE- LEMIENTs$ LEADERSHIP The Fire Chief: 1. Has a strong vision and goal setting agenda for the department; 2. Engages in strategic thinking and influence; team building, and mentoring; 3. Fosters personnel development including effective delegation and support; 4. Is transparent, fair and conducts effective human resource management, 5. Has inter_ departmental and political relationship building. 6. The chief seeks out and attend courses and workshops to continually self improve. 7. The Chief shall train, equip, maintain, and supervise; monitor building fire safety; and provide fire prevention and life safety educational programs. please provide any comment in regards to, Chief Todd's leadership qualities including organizational skills, adhering to departmental policies, morale, and adherence to further departmental goals and objectives. Comments: Leadership Score: COMMUNICATION The Fire Chief: 1. Engages in open and effective comimuniication within the department, with cooperators, with the Mayor and the County Council, with the Fire Commission, and with the public; 2. Promotes effective public engagement via social media, PSAs, website development and maintenance; 3. Attends (in person as much as, allowable) appropriate public meetings and gatherings to increase Community understanding of the vital role the department plays and the benefits of its function and services and operating sustainability. 4. Develops and maintains strategic partnerships with other fire response agencies and organizations. 51. Recognizes and! rewards individual and team accomplishments. Please provide cornments in regairds to the Chief's communication skills and qualities. Include in- person, electronic, memos, and social media. Comments: Communication Score: STRATEGIC PLANNING The Fire Chief: 1. Prioritizes effective and continued development and enhancement of the department's strategic plan based on law, safety, and accepted norms and practices; 2. Manages and maintains a viable Continuity of Operations Program; 3. Manages financial resources to meet planning objectives. 4. Collaborates with other County fire chiefs on the State Fire Council to address statewide fire protection issues. Please provide comments on ChiefTodd's strategic plan as it pertains to management, operations, and finances. Comments: Strategic Planning Score: RESOURCE ALLOCATION The Fire Chief: 1. Effectively utilizes finite resources to meet strategic plan objectives while engaging cooperators, volunteers, and the public; 2. Engages in continual diverse recruitment and training to maintain approved staffing levels; 3. Ensures that MOA and MO,U agreements are in place and up to date to maximize the use of cooperator resources. 4. Ensures vehicle readiness, including the availability of spares, effective repair processes, and strategic procurement planning to maintain a reliable fleet for emergency response. 5. Ensures adequate staffing for emergency response, including maintaining minimum staffing levels, planning, for emergency up-staffing and impiementing strategies for recalling personnel during disasters and other critical staffing needs. 6. The chief implements recruitment standards designed to attract people with high degrees of education, intelligence, and personal stability-, fair and appropriate personnel actions and promotions; and appropriate training Provide input on the Chief's effectiveness on the use of resources, Please include physical assets as well as human resources such as staffing, and efficient use of manpower balancing overtime costs vs. safety. Comments. Resource Allocation Score: SAFETY The Fire Chief: 1. Promotes a strong safety culture within the department" ongoing safety program and protocols that adhere to department, NFPA, FAA and OSHA standards; 2, Regularly reviews and reports safety and accident analysis; 3. Provides safety equipment that meets or exceeds national standards and regularly assesses the condition and adequacy of the equipment; 4, Regularly reviews policies and procedures to meet or exceed national safety standards. Provide any safety measures taken with adherence to NFPA, FAA, and OSHA in regards to staffing levels, union concerns, equipment, training, etc. Reviews and Updates any policies related to safety for both equipment and personnel. Comments: Safety Score: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS The Fire Chief: 1. Provides overall performance of the department in response to, and effective management of, all-risk incidents using accepted management practices though use of the Incident Command System-, Z Develops and deploys Incident Management Teams on incidents that exceed one operational period; 3. Seeks operational improvement through "after action" reviews and resultant corrective action plans. 4. Works with Civil Defense to develop and implement comprehensive emergency preparedness, response, and recovery plans, ensuring the department is ready for various emergency scenarios and regularly updates the plans. Provide input on performance at incidents in regards to manpower at incidents, the use of IC , utilization of equipment properly, AAR and corrective actions. Include Fire, EMS, Hazrnat, Ocean Safety, and Rescue operations. Comments: Emergency Operations Score: TOTAL AVERAGE SCORE: Approved: Date Gerald Kosaki, Chair Acknowledged: Date Kazuo Todd, Fire Chief tY_os !% Gerald Kosaki,Chair C.Kimo Alameda,Ph.D. �,y,�r.. Steven Hirakami,Vice Chair Mayor / Brian Cushnie,Member Les Hanano,Member Shon Magsalin,Member Wesley Mattos,Member �rF"o 'M►'w Wayne Perrin Jr.,Member Rick Porter,Member COUNTY OF HAWAII Carlene Wolf Member Fire Commission 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 9 Hilo,Hawaii 96720 Phone: (808)932-2950 Fax: (808)932-2949 July 24, 2025 Kazuo S.K.L. Todd Hawaii Fire Department Chief 25 Aupuni Street Suite 2501 Hilo, HI 96720 Sommer J. Tokihiro Human Resources Director Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 2 Hilo, HI 96720 C. Kimo Alameda,Ph.D Hawaii County Mayor 25 Aupuni Street Hilo, HI 96720 Dear Fire Chief Kazuo S.K.L. Todd, Human Resources Director Sommer J. Tokihiro, and Mayor C. Kimo Alameda,Ph.D.; The Hawaii County Charter, Section 7-4.5 states that the Fire Commission"may appoint such staff and engage such consultants as necessary for the performance of its duties." The Hawaii County Fire Commission would like to respectfully request that the County of Hawaii secure a secretary for the Fire Commission. The Fire Commission does not have a secretary dedicated solely to the Fire Commission. The Fire Commission is currently supported by Charisse Correa; however,Ms. Correa is an employee of the Hawaii Police Department and is required to perform duties for the Police Commission as well as the Fire Commission. Police Commission Chair Rick Robinson testified at our last meeting and informed the Fire Commission of the increased demands that the Police Commission has placed on Ms. Correa. The Chair of the Police Commission asked the Fire Commission to consider obtaining its own secretary to relieve the added burden the Fire Commission places upon Ms. Correa. In the recent past, Ms. Correa was out of the office and there was no one available to step in,which resulted in several months of cancelled Fire Commission meetings. This prompted the Fire Commission to look for alternative ways to remedy this problem,in the event a similar situation occurs again. In summary, the Fire Commission is respectfully requesting: (1) that the County secure a secretary for the Fire Commission so that the Fire and Police Commissions each have their own secretary; and(2) that the County initiate a contingency plan in the event the secretary for the Fire Commission is unavailable. The Fire Commission believes that if the Police and Fire Commissions have their own secretaries, the Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. secretaries could step in for one another if one of them is out of the office,which would ensure the ability of both Commissions to hold meetings. Please contact me if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this letter. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Gerald T.Kosaki, Chair County of Hawaii Fire Commission