Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992 Board of Fire Commissioners Minutes -ALL LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - DECEMBER 10 1992 The Chairperson, Charles Green, called the meeting to order at 7:42 p.m., on Thursday, December 10, 1992. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Fredric Abood, Robert Brown, Charles Green, Russell Sheathelm, and Wava Streeter. COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Connie Conklin, Connie Marin, and JoAnna Trierweiler. COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: None. OTHERS PRESENT: Asst. Chief Dan Decker, Asst. Chief Larry Pung, Chief Sam Hopkins, Board Secretary Dianna Emerson, Attorney Melvin McWilliams, and Fire Admin. Asst. Gary Burnett. The Secretary announced a quorum was present. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA Commissioner Abood requested that the proposed ambulance fee ordinance be added to the agenda. Commissioner Streeter moved to adopt the agenda with the addition. The motion was supported by Commissioner Brown. The motion passed unanimously. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The November 12, 1992, Board proceedings were approved unanimously with a motion made by Commissioner Brown and support from Commissioner Streeter. COMMUNICATIONS co try -t coo No communications were read at the Board meeting. rn PRESENTATIONS r— No presentations were made at the Board meeting. 'W CIO Q G- ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS CAD N Chief Hopkins spoke about the City's early retirement incentive program and how it has affected the Fire Department. The department has 4 Teamsters and two took advantage of the incentive. One clerical position in Fire Prevention and another in the Training Division. A discussion followed. LANSING FIRE BOARD - OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS DECEMBER 10, 1992 PAGE TWO Chief Hopkins is opposed to any additional cuts in personnel. They are putting together a critical need request to fill the positions. The department already has had $300,000 cut from its original budget request. The department has currently spent $200,000 less this year on total overtime expenditures. After the discussion on personnel, the Board expressed its concern and support that the clerical positions be filled immediately. Chief Hopkins spoke about the recent Board of Water and Light water problem. The loss of water pressure caused alarms to go off throughout the City. The Board of Water and Light will keep the department more informed in the future. The Chief said the department (and entire City) now has voice mail. The new Platform apparatus will be inspected next week. The Chief will be conducting oral interviews with 51 applicants in January 1993. He anticipates completing the interviews in one week. The department has six firefighter vacancies. There was discussion regarding the City Council approval of the console purchase. The Union, Safety Committee, and Asst. Chief Pung have been meeting about infection control. A finalized draft should be available for review by the next Fire Board meeting. The Chief discussed I.S.O. Ratings. City protection was discussed and the department-wide capabilities were explained by the Chief. Chief Hopkins said the Station infrastructure needs attention. He would like to add one more person to the Maintenance Division to maintain the buildings. COMMITTEE REPORTS Commissioner Sheathelm provided the November 1992 expenditure report. Payroll totalled $789,051.45 and miscellaneous expenditures totalled $97,725.38 for a Grand Total of $886,776.83. OLD/NEW BUSINESS Chief Hopkins presented the department's FY94 Budget Proposal to the Fire Board, and Admin. Assistant Gary Burnett was also present to answer questions pertaining to the proposal. The Chief highlighted critical areas for the Commissioners. The Chief was pleased with the efforts of each division and especially the time and efforts of Sandee Wilson in putting it all together. Equipment requests were discussed. Commissioner Abood moved that the Fire Department's FY94 Budget Proposal be adopted as submitted. The motion was approved by Commissioner Brown. The motion passed unanimously. Chairman Green said he would draft a letter stating the Board's support of the budget. LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS DECEMBER 10, 1992 PAGE THREE City Attorney McWilliams spoke about the City's adoption of the Uniform Fire Code. A discussion followed. Commissioner Brown moved that the Board supports the adoption of the Code. The motion was supported by Commissioner Abood. The motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Trierweiler was not present to discuss the Commissioner's Fire Station Visitation Schedule, so it was moved and unanimously carried that this item be tabled until the January 1993 meeting. Commissioner Abood passed out information pertaining to the Ambulance Fee Ordinance. A discussion followed. Commissioner Abood made a motion that the Fire Board reaffirms that it does not support the ordinance. The motion was supported by Commissioner Brown. It passed unanimously. Chairman Green will draft a letter to the Mayor and City Council. GENERAL ORDER Commissioner Brown thanked the Chief for the budget document as it has helped him to understand the functions of the department. Commissioner Abood moved that the December meeting of the Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners be adjourned. Commissioner Streeter supported the motion. The meeting adjourned at 9:37 p.m. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Lansing Fire Board will be held at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, January 14, 1993, at the No. 1 Fire Station, 120 East Shiawassee, Lansing, Michigan. If special accommodations are needed, please notify the Lansing Fire Department Administrative Office at 483-4563 twenty-four (24) hours prior to the meeting. Respectfully submitted, Dianna L. Emerson, Fire Board Secretary LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - DECEMBER 10,_1992 The Chairperson, Charles Green, called the meeting to order at 7:42 p.m., on Thursday, December 10, 1992. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Fredric Abood, Robert Brown, Charles Green, Russell Sheathelm, and Wava Streeter. COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Connie Conklin, Connie Marin, and JoAnna Trierweiler. COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: None. OTHERS PRESENT: Asst. Chief Dan Decker, Asst. Chief Larry Pung, Chief Sam Hopkins, Board Secretary Dianna Emerson, Attorney Melvin McWilliams, and Fire Admin. Asst. Gary Burnett. The Secretary announced a quorum was present. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA Commissioner Abood requested that the proposed ambulance fee ordinance be added to the agenda. Commissioner Streeter moved to adopt the agenda with the addition. . The motion was supported by Commissioner Brown. The motion passed unanimously. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The November 12, 1992, Board proceedings were approved unanimously with a motion made by Commissioner Brown and support from Commissioner Streeter. COMMUNICATIONS w No communications were read at the Board meeting. PRESENTATIONS No presentations were made at the Board meeting. ca ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS rn Chief Hopkins spoke about the City's early retirement incentive program and how it has affected the Fire Department. The department has 4 Teamsters and two took advantage of the incentive. One clerical position in Fire Prevention and another in the Training Division. A discussion followed. LANSING FIRE BOARD - OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS DECEMBER 10, 1992 PAGE TWO Chief Hopkins is opposed to any additional cuts in personnel. They are putting together a critical need request to fill the positions. The department already has had $300,000 cut from its original budget request. The department has currently spent$200,000 less this year on total overtime expenditures. After the discussion on personnel,the Board expressed its concern and support that the clerical positions be filled immediately. Chief Hopkins spoke about the recent Board of Water and Light water problem. The loss of water pressure caused alarms to go off throughout the City. The Board of Water and Light will keep the department more informed in the future. The Chief said the department land entire City) now has voice mail. The new Platform apparatus will be inspected next week. The Chief will be conducting oral interviews with 51 applicants in January 1993. He anticipates completing the interviews in one week. The department has six firefighter vacancies. There was discussion regarding the City Council approval of the console purchase. The Union, Safety Committee, and Asst. Chief Pung have been meeting about infection control. A finalized draft should be available for review by the next Fire Board meeting. The Chief discussed I.S.O. Ratings. City protection was discussed and the department-wide capabilities were explained by the Chief. Chief Hopkins said the Station infrastructure needs attention. He would like to add one more person to the Maintenance Division to maintain the buildings. COMMITTEE REPORTS Commissioner Sheathelm provided the November 1992 expenditure report. Payroll totalled $789,051.45 and miscellaneous expenditures totalled $97,725.38 for a Grand Total of $886,776.83. OLD/NEW BUSINESS Chief Hopkins presented the department's FY94 Budget Proposal to the Fire Board, and Admin. Assistant Gary Burnett was also present to answer questions pertaining to the proposal. The Chief highlighted critical areas for the Commissioners. The Chief was pleased with the efforts of each division and especially the time and efforts of Sandee Wilson in putting it all together. Equipment requests were discussed. Commissioner Abood moved that the Fire Department's FY94 Budget Proposal be adopted as submitted. The motion was approved by Commissioner Brown. The motion passed unanimously. Chairman Green said he would draft a letter stating the Board's support of the budget. LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS DECEMBER 10, 1992 PAGE THREE City Attorney McWilliams spoke about the City's adoption of the Uniform Fire Code. A discussion followed. Commissioner Brown moved that the Board supports the adoption of the Code. The motion was supported by Commissioner Abood. The motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Trierweiler was not present to discuss the Commissioner's Fire Station Visitation Schedule, so it was moved and unanimously carried that this item be tabled until the January 1993 meeting. Commissioner Abood passed out information pertaining to the Ambulance Fee Ordinance. A discussion followed. Commissioner Abood made a motion that the Fire Board reaffirms that it does not support the ordinance. The motion was supported by Commissioner Brown. It passed unanimously. Chairman Green will draft a letter to the Mayor and City Council. GENERAL ORDER Commissioner Brown thanked the Chief for the budget document as it has helped him to understand the functions of the department. Commissioner Abood moved that the December meeting of the Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners be adjourned. Commissioner Streeter supported the motion. The meeting adjourned at 9:37 p.m. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Lansing Fire Board will be held at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, January 14, 1993, at the No. 1 Fire Station, 120 East Shiawassee, Lansing, Michigan. If special accommodations are needed, please notify the Lansing Fire Department Administrative Office at 483-4563 twenty-four (24) hours prior to the meeting. Respectfully submitted, Dianna L. Emerson, Fire Board Secretary LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - NOVEMBER 12, 1992 The Chairperson, Charles Green, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m., on Thursday, November 12, 1992. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Fredric Abood, Robert Brown, Connie Conklin, Charles Green Jr., Connie Marin, Russell Sheathelm, and JoAnna Trierweiler. COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Wava Streeter. COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: None. OTHERS PRESENT: Assistant Fire Chief Larry Pung and Fire Board Secretary Dianna Emerson. The Secretary announced a quorum was present. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA Chairman Green added the Uniform Fire Code under New Business. Commissioner Sheathelm made a motion to approve the addition. The motion was supported by Commissioner Marin. The motion was supported unanimously. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Sheathelm made a motion to approve the September 10 and October 8, 1992, Fire Board proceedings. The motion was supported by Commissioner Trierweiler. The motion passed unanimously. COMMUNICATIONS The Secretary read two communications. A letter of commendation from the Delta Township Fire Chief, Victor Hilbert to Captain Jim Bisel, who on August 30, 1992, found a woman slumped over the wheel of her car and in physically bad condition on 1-96. He drove the woman's vehicle to Station #1 of the Delta Township Fire Department where EMS personnel treated her and transported her to a local hospital. Last week television honored Tom Vasilion as one of "Lansing's Unsung Heroes." On October 20, 1992, at approximately 1 1:45 a.m. he stopped a mother, who accidently backed her vehicle into her toddler daughter. His quick actions prevented further injury and saved the young girl's life. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Asst. Chief Pung had a few words to say about Fire Dispatch and the City's interest in combining it with the L.P.D. 9-1-1 Center. Chief Hopkins went to Minneapolis with Police Chief Jerry Boles, Mayor's Assistant Cleophus Boyd, and 9-1-1 Director Charles Bauer to view their dispatch system. The visit supported the Fire Department's position to keep the two as separate dispatch entities, and the Mayor has written a letter supporting the Fire Department's position. No real apparent cost savings can be found by combining the two dispatch centers. In the FY94 budget request, the department will request an upgrade of equipment. The department has finalized the first budget draft for FY94. After it has been reviewed, the department will deliver copies to each Fire Commissioner. The budget is due on Tuesday, December 15, 1992. The Fire Board should review and approve the budget proposal prior to that date. Commissioner Trierweiler, Finance Committee Chairperson, requested receipt of the copies prior to Thanksgiving. LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS NOVEMBER 12, 1992 PAGE TWO Commissioner Marin inquired about the status of the Fire Prevention Bureau. She works closely with the Bureau and knows they are understaffed. One major problem is in the area of juvenile firesetters. Asst. Chief Pung said one Fire Inspector vacancy created by a retirement is on hold with respect to hiring. He agrees the department needs to maintain a pro-active approach in prevention. He recommends she contact the Chief to discuss the vacancy situation prior to his meeting with the Mayor on Friday, November 20, 1992. Commissioner Sheathelm mentioned the firefighter's bargaining agreement expires on January 15, 1993. Asst. Chief Pung said negotiations should begin in the near future. Asst. Chief Pung said the Board have copies of the revisions to the Uniform Fire Code. Attorney Melvin McWilliams was not able to attend the Board meeting to lead the discussion. Commissioner Trierweiler asks that the Code appear on the December Fire Board agenda. The department hopes to begin hiring in January 1993. Chief Hopkins will be conducting his oral interviews next month. Asst. Chief Pung does not know how many people will be interviewed. The department submitted its Capital Improvements Program budget to Finance. Items include: Apparatus (1 truck and 3 pumpers); 800 Mhz Trunking Radio System; a decontamination vehicle; a hazardous material supply/compressor combination vehicle; a command vehicle; and, a station relocation consultant study. COMMITTEE REPORTS Commissioner Marin, Chairperson of the EMS/Personnel Committee, spoke about the Career Fair at the Lansing Center last Wednesday, November 4, 1992. The Lansing Fire Department had representatives there. They told her that the fire department employees would really like to have the Fire Commissioners visit the stations. A discussion followed. Commissioner Trierweiler will work with the Chiefs to coordinate visitation to all of the stations by every the Commissioners during the months of January and February 1993. Commissioner Sheathelm provided the October 1992 monthly report for expenditures. Payroll - $1,071,269; miscellaneous expenses - $46,860 = Grand Total - $1,118,129. The Commissioners discussed the overtime expenses that have incurred during the first four months of the fiscal year. Commissioner Brown made a motion that the expense report be approved as submitted. The motion was supported by Commissioner Trierweiler. OLD/NEW BUSINESS Chairman Green made reference to the draft copy of the Uniform Fire Code. He is not aware of any specific action that the Fire Board must perform. The Code will be discussed at the December meeting. GENERAL ORDER Commissioner Sheathelm asked if it would be possible to have a controlled signal for the #9 Fire Station at South Cedar Street. He thought one was there prior to the Cedar Street improvements. Asst. Chief Pung will check into the matter. LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS NOVEMBER 12, 1992 PAGE THREE The November meeting of the Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners adjourned at 8:30 p.m. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Lansing Fire Board will be held at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, December 10, 1992, at the No. 1 Fire Station, 120 East Shiawassee, Lansing, Michigan. If special accommodations are needed to attend the next meeting, please notify the Lansing Fire Department Administrative Office at 483-4563 twenty-four (24) hours prior to the meeting. Respectfully submitted, Dianna L. Emerson, Fire Board Secretary r LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - OCTOBER 8. 1992 The Vice Chairperson, Connie Marin, called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., on Thursday, October 8, 1992. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Fredric Abood, Robert Brown, Connie Marin, and Russell Sheathelm. COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Connie Conklin, Charles Green Jr., and JoAnna Trierweiler. COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Wava Streeter. OTHERS PRESENT: Asst. Chief Larry Pung, Asst. Chief Dan Decker, and Board Secretary Dianna Emerson. The Secretary announced a quorum was not present. Vice Chairperson Marin stated the Board would proceed with the meeting without taking any formal action. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA There weren't any additions to the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The September 10, 1992, Board proceedings will be approved at the November meeting. INTRODUCTION OF NEW FIRE COMMISSIONER Vice Chairperson Marin introduced Robert Brown Jr. as the new Fire Commissioner representing the 4th Ward through June 1996. Commissioner Brown is the former Director of the Michigan Department of Corrections. He stated he was born and raised in Lansing and attended M.S.U. He looks forward to serving on the Board. COMMUNICATIONS The communications will be read at the November 1992 meeting. PRESENTATIONS No presentations were made at the Board meeting. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Assistant Chief Pung said the department has completed the interview portion of the candidate selection. Chief Hopkins will conduct the second round of interviews. The department intends to hire after the first of the year. There are 6 vacancies. A $300,000 reduction in FY93 expenditures will result by delaying hiring until the beginning of 1993. The department has a new Administrative Assistant, Gary Burnett. He has 45 days to determine whether or not he will stay on that job (in accordance with the bargaining agreement). The department is working on its Fiscal Year 1993-1994 budget. �� LANSING FIRE BOARD - OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OCTOBER 8, 1992 PAGE TWO Asst. Chief Pung stated the clerical position in the Administrative Office had been posted within the city government offices. Sandra Wilson is employed through a temporary agency. Asst. Chief Pung spoke about equipment acquisitions. They are reviewing proposals from various vendors. Asst. Chief Pung said Battalion Chief Joe Malatinsky was released from the hospital last Monday. A discussion followed. Asst. Chief Decker said the department received some startling news when it was discovered that the pesticide used in the stations caused a severe allergic reaction for an employee. The department has met with the vendor to discuss this problem and to find an alternative spray. COMMITTEE REPORTS There were no committee reports. OLD/NEW BUSINESS No old or new business was reviewed by the Commissioners. GENERAL ORDER Commissioner Sheathelm said Fire Marshal Ballard had spoke to his service club during Fire Prevention Week. Also, he complimented Battalion Chief Terry Hinman on his participation and display last week at the Michigan Historical Museum. The meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Lansing Fire Board will be held at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, November 12, 1992, at the No. 1 Fire Station, 120 East Shiawassee, Lansing, Michigan. If special accommodations are needed, please notify the Lansing Fire Department Administrative Office at 483- 4563 twenty-four (24) hours prior to the meeting. Respectfully submitted, X, ��� � . Dianna L. Emerson, Fire Board Secretary 1 LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONER OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - SERER 10, 1992 MEETING COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Connie Conklin, Charles , Green, Jr. , Connie Marin, Russell Sheathelm, and Joanna Trierweiler. A quorum was present. COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Fredric Abood and Wava Streeter. COMMISSIONER VACANCY: One vacancy - 4th Ward, Term Expires 6/96 . OTHERS PRESENT: Assistant Chief Larry Pung, Acting Secretary Sandee Wilson, Attorney Melvin McWilliams , Inspector Mujahid Abdul-Hammeed, and Cinda Eltzroth. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chairman Green asked for additions and/or corrections to the minutes of the August 13 , 1992 , meeting. Commissioner Sheathelm moved to approve the minutes as written. The motion was supported by Commissioner Trierweiler, and the motion passed unanimously. COMMUNICATIONS Sandee Wilson reported that a thank you letter was received commending two paramedics responding to a accident on Pacific Ave on August 5 , 1992 . PRESENTATIONS Inspector Mujahid Abdul-Hameed and Cinda Eltzroth presented the Fire Board with the Lansing Smoke Detector Project. A verbal along with a slide presentation was given. The goal is to raise approximately $70 , 000 , by October 1993 , to be able to provide a smoke detector to each child in grades K-6 in the Lansing School District. Guest Fire Fighter Tim Salinas shared with the Board about the Corporate Challenge Competition that the Lansing Fire Department participated in. This is the third year of participation and the Lansing Fire Department took first place overall; receiving the Championship Cup which is on display in the Dining Room. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Assistant Chief Pung congratulated Tim and the time and effort he has put into coordinating the personnel to participate in the Corporate Challenge competition. Commissioner Marin recommended to get the involvement of various city committee ' s to raise money for the smoke detectors. Commissioner Green offered to write a letter to the Mayor concerning the Lansing Smoke Detector Project. Commissioner Marin moved that a letter be written by Commissioner Green to the Mayor and to the City Council supporting the Lansing Smoke Detector Project. The motion was supported by Commissioner Trierweiler. The motion passed unanimously. Cinda and Mujahid were invited by Commissioner Trierweiler to come back in a few months to update the Board on their progress. The Fire Board was invited to attend the Lansing Smoke Detector Project committee meeting. Dates will vary. Call Inspector Abdul-Hameed at Fire Prevention for next meeting date. Commissioner Marin inquired about the cost of smoke detectors . Inspector Abdul-Hameed replied that if they were bought through the station they ran $4 . 75 each. Commissioner Sheathelm suggested that a follow-up program on changing the batteries be created. Inspector Abdul-Hameed informed the Fire Board that the National Fire Prevention Week kick-off is October 3 , 1992 at the Museum at 717 W. Allegan. Assistant Chief Pung informed the Board that the oral interview- ing was in process . He also stated that they are still reviewing the proposals for the apparatus. Assistant Chief Pung also informed the Board that there had been two (2) HazMat incidents since the last board meeting. The Lindell Drop Forge Incident and the Train Derailment. Assistant Chief Pung reminded the Board that the Budget Process is getting started and he is willing to arrange for the Commissioners to visit the different stations . COMMITTEE REPORTS E.M.S. /Personnel Committee: No report . Planning Committee: No report. Finance/Building & Equipment Committee: Commissioner Sheathelm provided the August expenditures report. PAYROLL $855, 520 . 66 MISCELLANEOUS $131 , 599 . 84 GRAND TOTAL - AUGUST: $987 , 120 . 50 OLD/NEW BUSINESS Commissioner Marin inquired if there had been any progress in filling the Fire Board Commissioner vacancy. Commissioner Green stated that no communication has been received as of yet. Assistant Chief Pung stated that Chief Hopkins had received a list of candidates from the Mayors office for recommendation for the vacancy. Chief Hopkins did not know any of the candidates to recommend. Commissioner Green stated that he would make inquiries into this matter. Commissioner Marin has a possible recommendation for the vacancy that she will follow up on. GENERAL ORDER Melvin McWilliams informed the Board that Commissioner Abood would like to have the UNIFORM FIRE CODE finalized. Commissioner Green expressed appreciation of the Boards patience with his absences during the summer due to unforseen circumstances . Commissioner Green informed the Board that Dianna Emerson will be retiring from the City in January of 1993 , but she has stated that she will stay on until the end .of her term, June 1993 . The meeting adjourned at 8 : 24 p.m. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Fire Board will be held at 7 : 30 p.m. , Thursday, October 8 , 1992 , at Fire Station No. 1 , 120 East Shiawassee Street,' Lansing, Michigan. Respect ully submitted, i Sande J. Wilson U Acting Fire Board Secretary CITY CLERE LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - AUGUST 13, 1992 MEETING The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair Connie Marin at 1950 hours . Attorney McWilliams declared a quorum was present. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Connie Marin, Russell Shethelm, Wava Streeter and Jo Anna Trierweiler. COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Fredric Abood, Connie Conklin and Charles Green COMMISSIONER VACANCY: One vacancy - 4th Ward, Term Expires 6/96 OTHERS PRESENT: Chief Sam Hopkins, Assistant Chief Dan Decker, Assistant Chief Larry Pung, Acting Secretary Virginia Mitchell, Attorney Melvin McWilliams, Terry Hinman and John Volz . ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA None requested. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Vice Chairperson Connie Marin asked for additions and/or corrections to the minutes of July 9, 1992 . Hearing none, Commissioner Trierweiler moved to approve the minutes as written and distributed by the Secretary. The motion was supported by Commissioner Streeter and passed unanimously. PRESENTATIONS Chief Hopkins presented Battalion Chief John Volz with a plaque in honor of his retirement from the Lansing Fire Department. Battalion Chief Volz has served twenty-seven honorable years on the Department and has been of great benefit to all . His last two years he served as Red Shift Commander. REVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS Virginia Mitchell reported the following communications were received: Ingham County Sheriff Department, Gene L. Wriggelsworth, Sheriff. Commending Engineer Barry Gaukel for assistance with two seriously injured men, June 25, 1992 in Williamstown Township. A. A. Buerger, 200 Friendship Circle. Commending staff for response to alarm July 30, 1992 at apartment #522 . Minutes, August 13, 1992 Page 2 Michigan Senior Power Day, Inc, Agnes Thiel, O.P. Chair. Thanking Department for assistance during Senior Power Day, May 12, 1992 . Meeting in 1993 will be Thursday, May 20, at new location, Lansing Center. David A. Berridge, Transportation Engineer, City of Lansing. Letter of Appreciation for Fire Inspector Majahid Abdul-Hammed. Fire Extinguisher use training given to 30 Transportation staff members . Camp Tuhsmeheta, Greenville, Michigan, Carolyn Hewit, Camp Director. Appreciation for emergency care services for campers . ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Chief Hopkins reported that bids have been received for a new aerial platform truck. The bids ranged in price from $508,000 - $564,000 . The bids are being reviewed to see if they meet the required specifications . The budget allotment for this item is $557 ,000 . One company bid a demonstrator that is on the line now and could be delivered in a short time. However, it is yet to be determined if it meets our requirements . The low bidder has 1-1i year delivery time. Additional information will be provided at the next meeting. The Department has been very busy responding to numerous fires . Recruiting and hiring is on going. Oral interviews are about to begin. Fourteen Fire Fighters have been selected to handle the interviews . interviewed will be given to 188 candidates . This number will be reduced to 5-7 to be interview by the Chief. Hiring is expected sometime after January. The Mayor has indicated that he expects some cuts to be made to the budget. The only possible place to cut that would not cost the City ultimately more money in the long run is in the Suppression Division where we can hold off hiring people until January which will allow us to make the budget figure. It is expected that other fire departments in the area will attend our training classes . This will help cut our cost for training. Details are pending for this project. Our graduating class last Friday had 7 recruits . All of them were paramedics . We currently have five vacancies . Another class will gradate in January. Assistant Chief Decker reported that the 188 candidates will be interviewed by 4 teams of selected Fire Fighters beginning September 1, 1992 . Interviews should be completed by September 29th. Hiring to be after January lst. Teams consist of a cross section of the force and include minorities and females . Minutes, August 13, 1992 Page 3 Assistant Chief Pung reported the Department is currently participating in two events . The Borderline Fun Fest, an event that has raised approximately $30,000, and the Corporate Challenge, sponsored by the YMCA. Chief Hopkins reported that the sirens have been converted to radio signals and tests have been conducted recently to be sure they are working. COMMITTEE REPORTS EMS/Personnel and Planning Committee had no report at this time. The Finance Committee reported expenditures for July, 1992 were $673 ,812 . 69 . This included salaries and some miscellaneous expenses . GENERAL ORDER Commissioner. Streeter requested she be excused from the September 10, 1992 Board meeting. She will be attending a fund raiser at Joel Ferguson' s home and will be unable to be at the meeting. Commissioner Trieweiler inquired when a new Commissioner would be appointed to fill the term that expires in June, 1996 . Chief Hopkins indicated he has reviewed four applications forwarded to him by the Mayor. He will make an inquiry with the Mayor regarding the time frame for appointment. Commissioner Trieweiler then requested that the Mayor be advised that the Board would like someone who had the time and dedication to attend meetings as a quorum is required to conduct business. Commissioner Trieweiler requested that the Board, including the new Commissioner, if appointed quickly, be given a tour of all fire facilities to assist in making budgetary decisions . Chief Hopkins agreed and will make plans for the next meeting. Commissioner Marin requested that a presentation regarding the distribution of smoke detectors be made to see how the Board could assist with this project. Chief Hopkins volunteered to arrange a presentation for the next meeting. Assistant Chief Decker reported that Joan Schalkhauser, wife of Reverend Schalkhauser, Fire Department Chaplin was hospitalized recently with ulcers, but is at home now. Joe Malatinsky has been hospitalized with encephalitis but is improving each day. The wife of past Chief Mark Holiday has been hospitalized with cancer. She is in Sparrow Hospital . Chief Hopkins reported that the budget process has been started and preliminary information will be available at the next meeting. Minutes, August 13, 1992 Page 4 Administrative Assistant Vern Counseller and Tom Vasilion have already had a meeting with the Division Heads to, begin the budget process . It should be somewhat easier this year as the instructions remain the same. Commissioner Trierweiler moved the meeting be adjourned. Motion supported by Commissioner Streeter. Meeting adjourned at 8 :29 PM. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Fire Board will be held at 7 : 30 PM, Thursday, September 9, 1992 ' at the Fire Station No. 1, 120 East Shiawassee Street, Lansing, Michigan. Respectfully submitted Virginia Mitchell Acting Fire Board Secretary LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - JUNE 11 , 1992 COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Fredric Abood, Connie Conklin, Connie Marin, Russell Sheathelm, and JoAnna Trierweiler . A quorum was present . COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Charles Green . COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Ronald Hatcher and Wava Streeter . ALSO ATTENDING THIS MEETING: Fire Chief Sam Hopkins , Assistant Fire Chief Dan Decker , Board Secretary Dianna Emerson, Battalion Chief Miles Green, and Andrea Rodriguez . Vice Chairperson Marin called the June 11th Fire Board meeting to order at 7 : 55 p . m . The meeting was conducted at the No . 1 Fire Station, 120 East Shiawassee, Lansing, Michigan . ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda . APPROVAL OF MINUTES There were no additions or corrections to the May 1992 minutes , and the minutes were approved unanimously as they were written . COMMUNICATIONS Mrs . Emerson read two communications . On July 12, 1992, at 9 : 30 a . m. , The Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church at 549 East Mt . Hope Avenue will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the ordination of Pastor James Schalkhauser . After the service, a reception with punch and cake will take place in the social hall . EVERYONE IS INVITED. b Richard Ryals , Central Garage Superintendent , sent a memorandum dated r, May 26, 1992, regarding the fire on South Butler Street . It read as C. follows : " I would like to commend the Fire Suppression personnel ` 4 involved at the South Butler Street fire for their tremendous teamwork and professionalism in the rescue of the three victims of the fire . The personnel all faced extreme heat and a large amount of fire in the attack, and still demonstrated that rescue is the V number one objective of the Lansing Fire Department . " Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - June 11, 1992 Page Two "This is something your personnel should be proud of and should be commended for even though the outcome of the rescue was very tragic . As a support member of your department , it was most rewarding to see the fire personnel demonstrate such courage, heroism, and dedication to protect the lives and property of the City of Lansing . Again, many thanks . " PRESENTATIONS No presentations were made . ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Chief Hopkins spoke briefly about the FY93 budget and items authorized for purchase beginning July 1st . Year-end transfers for FY92 total $32, 000. Bids for new fire apparatus will be opened August 4th . The recruit application process is on-going . A discussion followed . The cause of the South Butler fire was a faulty fluorescent ballast . Commissioner Marin mentioned a group who is willing to donate batteries for smoke detectors . The community could come to the fire stations to receive them. The Commissioners were shown the medal of valor that was recently awarded to department personnel . Commissioner Trierweiler inquired about an incident at Lansing General hospital . A discussion followed . COMMITTEE REPORTS E .M. S . /Personnel Committee : Commissioner Marin reported the applicant agility test would be given every Monday in June . At this point , 33 people were disqualified , 133 people have completed testing, and 10 have failed (6 female and 4 male ) . 30 were disqualified because of poor driving records . Commissioner Marin has reviewed their names and she has a strong feeling the majority of the people are minorities . She wants to go on record as questioning why this would be so . She feels minorities are being hindered from being hired . Chief Hopkins said in many cases a poor driving record indicates a person cannot Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - June 11, 1992 Page Three follow rules . Rules are an intricate part of the interworkings of the fire department and he wants people who can follow the rules . A discussion followed . Planning Committee : No report . Finance/Building & Equipment Committee : Commissioner Sheathelm read the department ' s expenditure report for May 1992 . PAYROLLS ( 3) $1, 095, 116 . 74 MISCELLANEOUS + 35, 299 . 08 GRAND TOTAL : $1, 13 0, 415 . 8 2 Commissioner Sheathelm said June represented the last month of the fiscal year . The new fiscal year begins July 1, 1992, and it ends on June 30, 1993 . Prior to the meeting, the Commissioners had an opportunity to preview a new piece of apparatus . A discussion followed . OLD/NEW BUSINESS Commissioner Abood mentioned it is very difficult to hear approaching emergency vehicles on the street when cars are present playing loud, thunderous music . Commissioner Trierweiler said there is a noise ordinance . After a brief discussion, it was decided to table this issue for the next meeting when a representative is present from the City Attorney ' s office . Commissioner Abood inquired about ways to make the community more aware of the fire department ' s daily operations . Chief Hopkins said he would contact Ron Onufer in the City Council office to discuss the matter , since one avenue would be through the City ' s Channel 28 . Commissioner Abood would like to see this as an ongoing topic in a variety of media areas . GENERAL ORDER Assistant Chief Decker invited the Commissioners to visit any of the agility testing sessions during the next two Mondays at 8 a . m. Chief Hopkins mentioned a few of the complaints received concerning the agility test . Commissioner Sheathelm will have knee surgery on July 17 at Sparrow Hospital . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - June 11, 1992 Page Four Andrea Rodriguez, a teacher at Otto Middle School , mentioned she enjoyed the ride in the bucket of the new apparatus . The meeting adjourned at 5 : 50 P.M. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Fire Board will be held 7 : 30 P.M. , Thursday, July 9, 1992, at the Fire Station No . 1, 120 East Shiawassee Street , Lansing, Michigan . Respectfully submitted , Dianna L . Emerson', Fire Board Secretary LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - MAY 14, 1992, MEETING COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Fredric Abood, Connie Conklin, Charles Green, Connie Marin, and Russell Sheathelm. A quorum was present . COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Wava Streeter and JoAnna Trierweiler . COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Ronald Hatcher . OTHERS PRESENT: Assistant Chief Dan Decker , Assistant Chief Larry Pung, Secretary Dianna Emerson, and Cleophus Boyd . Chairman Green called the May 14, 1992, meeting of the Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners to order at 7 : 39 p .m. The meeting was held at the No . 1 Fire Station located at 120 East Shiawassee, Lansing, Michigan . ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda . Commissioner Sheathelm thanked the Fire Commissioners for selecting him to be honored at the April 27, 1992, City Council meeting in recognition of National Volunteer Week . One "special " outstanding volunteer member was recognized from each Board, Commission and Department . He also thanked the department for honoring him with its Humanitarian Award last Friday on May 8, 1992 . APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chairman Green asked for additions and/or corrections to the minutes of the April 9, 1992, meeting . Commissioner Marin moved to approve the minutes as written . The motion was supported by Commissioner Sheathelm, and the motion passed unanimously. COMMUNICATIONS Dianna Emerson said Chief Hopkins received a thank you letter dated May 1, 1992, from John L . Williams , Principal of the Capital Area Career Center of the Ingham Intermediate School District . The letter read as follows : Thank you for your time and support of our Health Occupations program for the EMT training portion . We truly appreciate the efforts of the Lansing Fire Department and yourself in helping our students attain the best possible education in this field . Thanks again for helping make good things happen for our Ingham County students . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - May 14, 1992 Page Two PRESENTATIONS No presentations were made . ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Assistant Chief Pung spoke about last week ' s Awards Presentation . Asst . Chief Pung mentioned the department will be participating in the annual memorial service at the Mt . Hope Cemetery that follows the Memorial Day Parade . Firefighters who have died in the line of duty will be remembered as well as employees/former employees who have passed away since last year ' s memorial service . Commissioner Sheathelm said Fire Chaplain Jim Schalkhauser plays ,an important part in this memorial service . The Chaplain was also honored at last Friday ' s awards ceremony . Assistant Chief Decker indicated the department had recently completed hiring a group of new personnel . The department has the final results of the written testing for Firefighter I . 334 people took the test and 320 people passed it . The agility test will be given in June . Due to the number of people scheduled for the test , it will take approximately 4 days . Overall the group looks very promising . Applicants have been told to update their personnel records at City Hall with new educational accomplish- ments/degrees/etc . throughout the hiring process . Asst . Chief Decker said the department will be purchasing a new 100 ' platform/ladder truck . He thanked the Fire Commissioners for their support . Asst . Chief Decker stated No . 3 Ladder is currently being refurbished . It is expected back by the end of this year . Chairman Green inquired about the purchase of defibrillators for the department . Asst . Chief Pung said a representative from City Council had telephoned him today seeking additional information . The A/C views the inquiry as a positive note . Commissioner Marin said Councilperson Schmidt has been inquiring about the department ' s equipment . Mrs . Schmidt also appreciated receiving an invitation to the department ' s awards ceremony . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - May 14, 1992 Page Three COMMITTEE REPORTS E.M. S . / Personnel Committee : Commissioner Marin announced that a former firefighter , Roberto Urrabazo, passed away and the services are this Saturday . Commissioner Marin participated in a career day at the Sheridan Road School today . The Fire Prevention Bureau had a representative there . This past Tuesday was Pattengill Middle School ' s career day. Planning Committee : No report . Finance/BuildinK & Equipment Committee : Commissioner Sheathelm provided the April expenditure report . PAYROLL $728, 195 . 27 MISCELLANEOUS + 36, 188 . 17 GRAND TOTAL - APRIL : $764, 383 . 44 OLD/NEW BUSINESS The Fire Board did not have any old or new business to review. GENERAL ORDER Commissioner Sheathelm inquired about the parade on Saturday, May 9th, and how it affected the police and fire department . Asst . Chief Pung responded by saying the north and south arteries were cut off by the parade route, but he had not heard any comments about the day. He knew there were fewer spectators than expected . The parade had 4, 000 participants . Commissioner Abood made a suggestion for the Board members to consider at a future meeting . He would like to see the City provide the community with information on how their tax dollars are spent . A series of television programs could familiarize citizens with how personnel are hired and what they are required to know and do . Departments could provide profiles regarding their everyday operations and internal organization/structure . Chairman Green said it was a good suggestion and he asked each Commissioner to think about the idea . Mr . Boyd attended the awards ceremony . He was pleased with the program and said it was a very pleasant afternoon . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - May 14, 1992 Page Four Chairman Green stated he would not be at the June meeting . Commissioner Sheathelm said he might not be able to attend the June meeting . Chairman Green said he discussed the Fiscal Year 1992-1993 Budget with Chief Hopkins . The Chief appreciates the Fire Board ' s support during the budget process . The meeting adjourned at 8 : 05 P .M. The neat regularly scheduled meeting of the Fire Board will be held at 7 : 30 P.M. , Thursday, June 11, 1992, at the Fire Station No . 1, 120 East Shiawassee Street , Lansing, Michigan . Respectfully submitted , Dianna L. Emerson, Fire Board Secretary 1,ANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - APRIL 9, 1992, MEETING COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Fredric Abood , Charles Green, Ronald Hatcher , Connie Marin, Russell Sheathelm, Wava Streeter , and JoAnna Trierweiler . A quorum was present . COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Connie Conklin . OTHERS PRESENT: Chief Sam Hopkins , Assistant Chief Dan Decker , Assistant Chief Larry Pung, Secretary Dianna Emerson, and Attorney Melvin McWilliams . Chairman Green called the April 9, 1992, meeting of the 18ns[Vng Board of Fire Commissioners to order at 7 : 35 p.m . Iv � f i in ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA rr-a `r. There were no additions to the agenda . APPROVAL OF MINUTES tV CO Chairman Green asked for additions and/or corrections to the minutes of the March 12, 1992, meeting . Commissioner Sheathelm mentioned Firefighter Frank Lain ' s name was misspelled as Layne in two places . Commissioner Sheathelm moved to approve the minutes as corrected . The motion was supported by Commissioner Streeter , and it carried unanimously . COMMUNICATIONS The Chief read a thank you note from R. Bouts , Dept . of Community Relations and Development , Ingham Medical Center . The department provided EMT support during their 3-on-3 basketball tournament . The Secretary read the attached thank you letter from Chief Hopkins to John Stafford and Frank Lain regarding recruiting . PRESENTATIONS No presentations were made . ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Chief Hopkins spoke briefly about the FY93 proposed budget and upcoming meetings with City Council . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - April 9, 1992 Page Two Commissioner Marin asked about current vacancies and the number of minorities hired . The Chief informed her one person would be hired within two weeks , then the department will have a full complement of suppression personnel . He told the Board the last seven people hired are white males . All available minorities were hired in the first round . The department will be testing new applicants at the Hill Vocational Center on April 15, 1992 . He does not know the total number of applications that were received . Note : Commissioner Abood arrived at 7 : 45 p . m . Commissioner Marin asked who would be continuing the department ' s recruiting efforts . The Chief responded the department will not have an ongoing program, but the Administrative staff is always available to help applicants . Chairman Green told the Board members he revised the budget letter . It is addressed to City Council and is ready to be signed by each Commissioner . A discussion followed . COMMITTEE REPORTS Commissioner Marin, E.M. S. /Personnel Committee Chairperson - No report . Chairman Green, Planning Committee Chairperson - No report . Commissioner Trierweiler , Finance/Building & Equipment Committee Chairperson - No report . Chief Hopkins provided information regarding ambulance bids . The vendor recommended for the purchase is not the lowest bid , however , the City has bought its last three or four ambulances purchase order . from mhem Delivery would be 120 days from the receipt of a Commissioner Abood inquired about the purpose of the Committees . A discussion followed . OLD/NEW BUSINESS Chairman Green appointed Commissioner Sheathelm to the department ' s Awards and Citations Committee . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - April 9, 1992 Page Three On Monday, April 27, 1992, in recognition of National Volunteer Week, the Mayor and City Council will recognize and honor one "special " outstanding volunteer member from each Board, Commission or Department . A mini reception will be held prior to the City Council meeting . Chairman Green nominated Commissioner Russell Sheathelm as the Fire Board ' s representative . Commissioner Sheathelm has provided 25 years of outstanding service as a Fire Commissioner . Commissioner Marin so moved , and the motion was supported by Commissioners Hatcher and Trierweiler . The motion carried unanimously . GENERAL ORDER Chief Hopkins announced the department ' s Awards/Citations Dinner will be held at the No . 9 Fire Station on Friday, May 8th . The ceremony will begin at 3 : 00 p .m. Each Commissioner will receive an invitation . Attorney Melvin McWilliams stated he was working on updating the Fire Code . Commissioner Sheathelm inquired about some type of insignia to distinguish Fire Engineers from Firefighters . Asst . Chief Pung has checked into it , and Chief Hopkins said it isn ' t practical to purchase anything at this time . A discussion followed on other means of name identification . Commissioner Hatcher said he received a call from the Mayor ' s Office regarding reappointment to the Fire Board in July 1992 . He has not accepted reappointment since a lot of out -of-state business tends to keep him away from the monthly meetings . Commissioner Karin informed the Board members that she has accepted reappointment in July 1992 . Commissioner Streeter complimented Chairman Green on the revision of the budget letter to City Council . It states exactly how the Board feels about this matter . The meeting adjourned at 8 : 18 P . M. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Fire Board will be held at 7 : 30 P . M. , Thursday, May 14, 1992, at the Fire Station No . 1, 120 East Shiawassee Street , Lansing, Michigan . Respectfully submitted , Dianna L . Emerson, Fire Board Secretary a z. CITY of LANSING - INTEROFFICE COMMUNICATION TO: John S.tab�oicd and Frank. Lain DATE:6 Aptit 7992 FROM: Samuel. R. Hopk i L6, Fixe Ch,ie6 SUBJECT: LANSING FIRE DEPARTMENT RECRUITING I want to take thi.6 oppoAtuni.ty to thank you JoA a job wea done! ! Fon. yea4,6, we have que6tioned the City ob Lan6 i.ng hixh ng pAactiee6. Ove)L my ea/c.ee/L, I have either. pa4-ti-e ipated .i.n- 6evetat pn.og&am6, ,initiated my own, of 6uppoAted o.theA,6 .in .the.ix attemptS to .inenea6 e m4 non,i t y �cephe6 enta io n on th,i6 depaktment. Mo.6.t o6ten, 6cu6tAation wa,6 .the o ne y .thing aceompe,i.6 hed. The pnogAam you have Jurt ) eeentey eompteted hab atheady Aemoved my 6u tAation. your e66oxt.6 and the numbe tz o� peopye. you were .in contact with ha6 made thin a 6ucce6.6. In the community, I have heafcd nothing but pn.ai.6e Jon youA qj oh t6. A noAitied are. -inj olcmed and aware o� :the themendou6 oppontu-nitie.6 .in .the Fite- SeAv.iee. Sevelcat have a Leady ervzoUed in vaAiou.6 Fixe AeZated pnogh.am6. Thi.6, by it,6 e P-6, iz a g/Leat ac.comptiz hment and we a Z owe you two a debt o6 .thank. you 6oh a job we F- done. cc: Fi&e Board File SRH/.a Jw LANSINO BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS No. 1 Fire Station 120 East Shiawassee Street Lansing, Michigan M E E T I N G A G E N D A THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 1992, AT 7: 30 P.M. 1 . Call to Order - Roll Call . (Commissioner Conklin excused . ) 2 . Additions to the Agenda . 3 . Review of Minutes - March 12, 1992, meeting . 4 . Review of Communications . t 5 . Presentations : If any . .- 6 . Administrative Comments - Chief and Assistant Chiefs . 7 . Committee Reports : Co a . E .M. S. /Personnel , Committee Chairperson Marin b . Planning, Committee Chairperson Green 3 C . Finance/Bldg . & Equip . , Committee Chairperson Trierweiler 8 . New/Old Business . a . Mayor ' s Executive Budget (New) . b . Board Member Appointment --Awards/Citation Committee (Old ) . C . Nomination for Natl . Volunteer Week Recognition (Old ) . 9 . General Order - Comments from Audience and Fire Board Members . 10 . Adjournment . COMMISSIONERS Charles Green, Jr . , Chairperson Concepcion Marin, Vice Chairperson Fredric Abood Connie Conklin Ronald Hatcher Russell Sheathelm Wava Streeter JoAnna Trierweiler Dianna Emerson , Secretary LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - MARCH 12 1992 MEETING COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Fredric Abood, Connie Conklin, Charles Green, Connie Marin, Russell Sheathelm, and Wava Streeter . A quorum was present . COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: JoAnna Trierweiler . COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Ronald Hatcher . OTHERS PRESENT: Chief Sam Hopkins , Assistant Chief Dan Decker , Assistant Chief Larry Pung, Secretary Dianna Emerson, Attorney Melvin McWilliams , Mayoral Executive Assistant Cleophus Boyd, Fire Lieutenant Marty Wade, and Firefighters John Stafford and Frank Layne . Chairman Green called the March 12, 1992, ' meeting of the Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners to order at ' : 35 p . m. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda . APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chairman Green asked for additions and/or corrections to the minutes of the February 13th meeting . Hearing none, Commissioner Sheathelm moved to approve the minutes as written and distributed by the Secretary . The motion was supported by Commissioner Streeter . The motion carried unanimously . The Chairman asked for additions and/or corrections to the special meeting on February 20th . There were no additions/corrections . Commissioner Conklin moved to approve the February 20th minutes as printed and distributed . That motion received support from Commissioner Marin and it passed unanimously . PRESENTATIONS Chief Hopkins introduced Lt . Marty Wade, Awards/Citation Committee Chairperson . The committee was established in 1988 by procedure to recognize the quality of care and courageous acts by department employees and citizens . Former Commissioner Max Zemer had been actively involved with the committee . A Board member needs to be appointed to the committee, which meets twice a year . The committee ' s procedure and by-laws will be provided to each Fire Commissioner . Lansing Board of Five �-0mmtr�r3toner� Offlcial Proceedings - March 12, 1992 Page Two Five recommendation letters for honors were received during the past six months . The Metal of Valor will be given to two individuals during a recognition dinner at No . 9 Fire Station in May . The dinner will also be a fundraiser to establish a savings account for purchasing savings bonds for award recipients . Local 421 initially donated $500 for the awards process . Funds had been budgeted by the City, but no funds are available in the current budget . This is the first time the Metal of Valor will be awarded . A discussion followed regarding previous awards . Commissioner Abood moved that Chairman Green appoint a Board member to the Committee . The motion was seconded by Commissioner Marin and it passed unanimously . Chairman Green would like to know by the next meeting who is interested in working with the Committee . This topic will be placed on the April agenda . COMMUNICATIONS The Secretary did not have any communications to read . ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Assistant Chief Pung provided information about The Hundred Club of Greater Lansing . The organization is dedicated to honoring area police officers and firefighters who perform acts above and beyond the call of duty . In the event of a tragedy in the line of duty, such as death, The Hundred Club provides immediate assistance to their families . The group has approximately 160 members and each member contributes annual dues of $100 . (Each Commissioner received a brochure to review. ) Commissioners Conklin and Streeter each requested 20 additional brochures . Asst . Chief Pung said two L .F . D . employees will be honored at the "Club ' s " annual dinner on Wednesday, March 18, 1992 . Assistant Chief Dan Decker reported five new recruits were hired on Monday, March 9, 1992 . The new employees are : Jeff Brown, Joe Clayton, Michael Hamel , Michael Hamilton, and Robert Oleson . Firefighter Cheryl Barea resigned effective March 3, 1992, at 0730 hours . She will be pursuing her Doctorate in Education . Captain Art Overly was placed on retirement at 0730 hours on March 8, 1992, after 26 years and 5 months of service . As a result of the resignation and retirement , the City ' s Personnel Department has approved two more positions for hiring . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - March 12, 1992 Page Three Chief Sam Hopkins spoke about Chairman Green ' s letter regarding the FY93 proposed budget . He felt it was very accurate, and it pointed out critical areas . Chief Hopkins said the department is participating in a statewide exercise called Junex-92, which involves emergency management and emergency response systems for disasters . Messages are received every week from the State . The departments involved are required to check their emergency plans to make sure they have the proper response procedures and personnel assigned . The Tri -County Quality Assurance Committee, which is a medical authority for ambulance service , recently questioned a crew' s quality of care . The Committee has the power to decertify paramedics . The situation in question has been resolved . A discussion followed . On Monday, April 27 , 1992, in recognition of National Volunteer Week, the Mayor and City Council would like to honor and recognize one "special " outstanding volunteer member from each Board , Commission or Department . The nomination can be a member who has served or is currently serving . A mini reception for these extra special volunteers will be held prior to the City Council meeting . The Board ' s nomination should be made in writing with a short paragraph describing why the special person was chosen . The nomination deadline is Friday, April 10, 1992, and should be submitted to Brenda Hull , Volunteer/Project Coordinator , Human Resources Department , 119 North Washington Square Annex, 3rd Floor , Lansing, Michigan 48933 . The Chief spoke about the arson information provided to the Commissioners . Information will be shared with the Commissioners to keep them informed about the inner workings of the department . COMMITTEE REPORTS Commissioner Marin, E . M. S. /Personnel Committee Chairperson, stated the Fire Prevention Bureau would be participating in Otto Middle School ' s Career Day on March 19, 1992 . She has been meeting with John Stafford and Frank Layne regarding recruitment . These guys have been very busy and they have met with lots of candidates . Since the number of department vacations will increase in the near future, John and Frank will be returning to regular duty at the end of this month . Commissioner Marin asked the Chief to assign Asst . Chief Pung to continue the recruitment effort . Commissioner Conklin moved that the report be accepted . The motion was approved by Commissioner Streeter and it passed unanimously . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - March 12, 1992 Page Four Commissioner Sheathelm reports expenditures during February 1992 totaled $757, 818 . 35 . (Payroll = $703, 436 . 05; and , miscellaneous expenses = $54, 382 . 30 . ) Commissioner Streeter moved that the expenditure report be accepted . The motion was supported by Commissioner Conklin . It passed unanimously . OLD/NEW BUSINESS The Fire Board members discussed Chairperson Green ' s letter regarding their approval of the Fire Department ' s recommended FY93 budget (See letter attached to February Board minutes . ) commissioner Ab god made a motion that the letter be submitted to City Council by each Fire Commissioner . The motion was supported by Commissioner Marin and it carried unanimously . A discussion followed . GENERAL ORDER Mr . Boyd made comments regarding the buetfo d the Fire Department ' s turnback at the end of FY91 . A discussion The meeting adjourned at 9 : 00 P.M. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Fire Board will be held at 7 : 30 P . M. , Thursday, April 9, 1992, at the Fire Station No . 1, 120 East Shiawassee Street , Lansing, Michigan . Respectfully submitted , Dianna L . Emerson, Fire Board Secretary LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - SPECIAL MEETING THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 1992 The Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners met at 5 : 30 p.m. on Thursday, February 20, 1992, at the No . 1 Fire Station to discuss the department ' s proposed budget request for the 1992-1993 fiscal year . Chairman Green called the special meeting to order . The following Commissioners were present : Fredric Abood, Connie Conklin, Charles Green, Russell Sheathelm, Wava Streeter , and JoAnna Trierweiler . Commissioner Connie Marin was excused . Commissioner Ronald Hatcher was absent . These people were also present : Chief Sam Hopkins , Board Secretary Dianna Emerson, Attorney Melvin McWilliams , Thomas Vasilion (Chief of Maintenance/Alarm Division ) , and Vern Counseller (Administrative Assistant ) . Commissioner Abood made a motion to adopt the FY93 proposed budget as presented with a discussion prior to voting for its approval . The motion was supported by Commissioner Conklin . The budget format was discussed . Chief Hopkins explained the budget procedure and meetings with Budget Director Jan Lazar, Mayor McKane, and City Councilmembers . Commissioner Streeter expressed concern about the replacement of equipment and apparatus . Different methods were discussed for acquiring equipment and apparatus . The Board voted on the motion to adopt the budget , and it passed unanimously . Chairman Green asked each Fire Commissioner to provide him with their written statements regarding the FY93 budget by Monday, February 24, 1992, and he would incorporate everyone ' s remarks in the Board ' s budget approval letter to City Hall . The Board discussed upcoming insurance ratings with Chief Hopkins . Commissioner Abood moved that the meeting be adjourned at 7 : 00 p .m . The motion was supported by Commissioner Sheathelm, and it passed unanimously . Respectfully submitted, Dianna L . Emerson, ---~'""" Fire Board Secretary Date: February 27- 1992 To: Mayor Terry McKane From: Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Subject: Fire Department Budget 20, 1992 to consider our position The Board of Fire Commissioners met on February reviewed several critical issues he proposed 1992-1993 Fire Department budget. We have discussed the relative to t P our current position. We budget proposal at a number of meetings and have with the Departments nosed,budgetoasprior submittedebyhthe Administration. fully support the prop d relative to There are several issues that we believe must be stress There Department this budget and the continued effective operation of the Lansing the administration regarding We have over the past year received information from th We are alarmed at the plan to the condition of the departments equipment an appe lack aratus. proposed deteriorating condition of the departma timelylbasis.anThehdepartmentaha lieces deter lace that equipment on a lace old deteriorating effectively replace purchase of equipment to rep budgets that call for the P et deleted. We fully understand the ement condition o only to have that part of the budget to purchase necessary rep if the equipment is not replaced on a scheduled the cities fiscal status and the inability of the equipment, the department will equipment each year. However, unable to carry out its mission because it basis that takes into aositiontof. beinge life soon find itself in a P will not have sufficient operable equipment to do so. s Suggest that the City Administration find ctical to consider replacing alternative ways to address We strongly Bugg We do not believe that it P this critical issue. several hundred thousand dollars and d to p haviay ng that equipment and apparatus costing There must be other alternatives that rchasedpinad effective life expectancy of ten to fifteen years and attemPtingas equipment within a single year. apparatus w P Purchase urchase agreement. We haal Fenancefo med Authorityt there the cost over severaa yearslease/p We are aware that some a this manner through e ex lored and an alternative selectdthatallows within the is also other alter�abive puch as the Michigan MuniciP hdepartment Program. These must ment and apparatus timely or replacement of the equip in next two to three years become ineffective• which the budget information is ro osed programs to be We have also become aware that the manner c d et items. An example of this presented does not allow for kedttonproQosedlbudget i °f p P laced on fire trucks effectively evaluated and �n emergencies. for purchase of defibrillators to e P concern is the proposal he city become first responders to criticalr heart failure emer through t r- BUDGET DI` NZION ,� �y� m -2- The city would have to purchase at least seven completely outfitted Ambulance rigs at a cost of nearly four hundred thousand dollars each, and hire twenty one new personnel to man the rigs to provide the coverage the purchase of the defibrillators and training of current staff in their use would provide. It is accepted fact that if a heart failure patient is not reached and treated within five minutes the chance of survival of the individual is almost nonexistent. To have a reasonable chance of survival (50/50) the individual must be reached within three minutes. The cities current emergency response capability means that probably eighty percent of its citizens during any given time of- the day are outside the response capacity of the city vehicles to provide a reasonable chance of survival . We believe there must be a better methodology utilized to allow adequate presentation of these program proposals and how they relate to items proposed in the budget. Probably the most critical area that we see that needs addressing is the area of training. The most valuable resource the department has is its personnel . Effectively trained personnel enhance the capability of the department to carry out its mission providing protection to the citizens of the city' but also enhance the ability of the personnel to perform necessary functions without becoming injured or harmed in performing that function. We believe that providing a training budget item within the Departments budget and allowing the departments administration to control how those monies are used to best train its personnel would greatly enhance the departments ability to create a more effective personnel staff to. address its mission. This is increasingly more important in times of fiscal crisis when the acquiring of improved technology is lessened. One last point we would like to stress is regarding the ISO (Insurance Service Office) rating process. We are informed that Lansing is due to be rated again soon. We are also informed that the insurance rates that citizens pay for homeowners fire insurance is directly related to the condition and quality of its fire service. While we are proud of the fact that Lansing enjoys the reputation of having one of the finest Fire Departments in the country, we are seriously concerned that with the recent trend of the budgets for the city, we will soon lose that distinction. We believe that the city of Lansing is at a crossroads. The decisions now being made will have serious impact on the quality of life for the citizens of the city. Our support of this budget is based upon our belief that it is a minimum that will allow a maintenance of the current status. Anything less will result in deterioration of the quality of the service that can be provided. We strongly urge you to find a way to include this budget proposal in your budget for the city for 1992-1993. Respectfully Submitted Charles Green, Jr. , Chairman, Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - FEBRUARY 13, 1992, MEETING COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Fredric Abood, Connie Conklin, Charles Green, Connie Marin, Russell Sheathelm, Wava Streeter , JoAnna Trierweiler . A quorum was present . COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Ronald Hatcher . OTHERS PRESENT: Assistant Chief Dan Decker , Assistant Chief Larry Pung, Secretary Dianna Emerson, Attorney Melvin McWilliams , and Firefighter John Stafford . Chairman Green called the regular meeting of the- Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners to order at 7 : 35 p .m. , on Thursday, February 13, 1992 . INTRODUCTION - NEW COMMISSIONER Chairman Green welcomed the new Fire Commissioner, Fredric Abood, who will hold an ' At-Large ' position that expires June 1995 . air . Abood provided an interesting insight to his background . Each person present also introduced themselves to Mr . Abood . ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda . APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chairman Green asked for additions and/or corrections to the minutes of the January 9, 1992, meeting . Hearing none, Commissioner Sheathelm moved to approve the minutes as printed and distributed by the Secretary . The motion was supported by Commissioner Marin . The motion carried unanimously. COMMUNICATIONS The Secretary did not have any communications . PRESENTATIONS No presentations were made during the meeliGgwy S Buy N, Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners. Official Proceedings - February 13, 1992 Page Two ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS According to Asst . Chief Pung, five new firefighters are tentatively scheduled to be hired on March 9, 1992 . These people were selected from last year ' s hiring roster . (The department currently has five firefighter vacancies and one clerical vacancy. ) A discussion followed on the selection process , Procedure #28, and recruitment . Firefighter John Stafford spoke about the department ' s recruiting efforts . He has been assigned to this duty along with Firefighter Frank Layne . They have a lot of work ahead of them . Asst . Chief Pung has a plaque for former Fire Commissioner/Chairman Gordon Steinhauer . The Assistant Chief will deliver it to his home in the near future . Several Commissioners expressed an interest to see Mr . Steinhauer prior to his family' s moving to West Virginia . A dis- cussion followed . COMMITTEE REPORTS Commissioner Marin, E .M. S. /Personnel Committee Chairperson, is pleased to see the department has staff devoted to recruiting efforts . She has provided Firefighters Stafford and Layne with recommendations and information pertaining to methods of recruitment , as well as names of people to contact regarding recruitment practices . Commissioner Sheathelm reports expenditures during January 1992 totaled $860, 714 . 45 . (Payroll = $824, 165 . 10; and, miscellaneous expenses = $36, 549 . 35 . ) Commissioner Marin moved that the expenditure report be accepted . The motion was supported by Commissioner Conklin . It passed unanimously . OLD/NEW BUSINESS Commissioner Trierweiler , Finance Committee Chairperson, spoke about the department ' s FY93 budget request . There was a discussion about the budget process , the Board ' s role in the process , the City' s financial status, and changes made to the budget . Commissioner Abood made a motion that the Board hold a special meeting to review the proposed budget . The meeting will be held on Thursday, February 20, 1992, at 5 : 30 p.m. Commissioner Marin supported the motion and it passed unanimously. Attorney McWilliams commented on the fire code . He will be working closely with the Fire Chief and Fire Marshal to update it . The Chief might have the information available for the Board by the April meeting . A discussion followed . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - February 13, 1992 Page Three GENERAL ORDER Media coverage for hazardous materials incidents was the next topic of discussion . Commissioner Marin said Maria Garcia at Channel 6 Community Affairs was contacted, and Fire Inspector Abdul-Hameed will be meeting with her to tape an interview. Chairman Green indicated he spoke to Curtis Riddle at The Lansing State Journal . He will follow-up on this matter . The meeting adjourned at 9 : 00 P. M. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Fire Board will be held at 7 : 30 P.M. , Thursday, March 1,R, 1992, at the Fire Station No . 1, 120 East Shiawassee Street , Lansing, Michigan . Respectfully submitted, Dianna L . Emerson, Fire Board Secretary LANSING BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS - JANUARY 9, 1992 COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Charles Green, Ronald Hatcher , Connie Marin, Russell Sheathelm, and Wava Streeter . (A quorum was present . ) COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Connie Conklin and JoAnna Trierwe.iler . OTHERS PRESENT: Fire Chief Sam Hopkins , Asst . Chief Larry Pung, Dianna Emerson, Melvin McWilliams , Cleophus Boyd, and four members from Explorer Post #421 : Jim Cherry, A. J . DeWaele, Zachary Burns , and Eric Weber . The Chair , Charles Green, called the regular meeting of the leinsEkng Fire Board to order at 7 : 35 p.m. , on Thursday, January 9, 199'2 . (The Board has one vacant Commissioner position . ) - x . . ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda . - 00 APPROVAL OF MINUTES -,j I Chairman Green asked for additions and/or corrections to the December 12, 1991, minutes . He did not receive any changes . Commissioner Sheathelm moved to approve the minutes as printed and distributed by the Secretary. The motion was supported by Commissioner Marin, and it carried unanimously. COMMUNICATIONS The Secretary read one communication from Mrs . W. D. Barry dated December 31, 1991 . "Around midnight , December 17, I had trouble breathing and the paramedics were called . I had a heart attack . If it were not for the quick and caring attention I received from them, I am sure I would not be here to write this letter today. I Just wanted to let you know what a fine group of people you have as paramedics . They are truly worth their weight in gold . " Chairman Green mentioned it pleases him when the community compliments the department on its employees and the quality of its service . There was a discussion about contacting The Lansing State Journal for some coverage on different aspects regarding the department , primarily hazardous materials and how the department responds to such incidents . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - January 9, 1992 Page Two Commissioner Marin suggested contacting WLNS-Channel 6, Community Affairs . Their "Minority Viewpoint " segment focuses on issues affecting the community . Chairman Green agrees it would be a good opportunity for speaking about the Lansing Fire Department . He asked Commissioner Marin to make the necessary contact ; and, he will help her put together and do the presentation . Commissioner Streeter said someone had mentioned to her today that the woman who lost her husband at the Clemens Street fire was very pleased with the department ' s performance at the incident , even though she lost her husband . PRESENTA TI ONS Chief Hopkins introduced the Fire Board to four members of the department ' s Explorer Post : Jim Cherry, A. J . DeWaele, Zachary Burns , and Eric Weber . The group has 15 members . ( It is limited to 16 people . ) They meet every Tuesday unless their Advisor , Tom Cochran, is working . They also meet some weekends . The Post is affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America . Members have opportunities to learn about E.M. S. and firefighting with some hands-on experience . (Phase I and II programs are completed . ) There is an Advisor and Assistant Advisor representing the department . Officer structure within the Post includes a Chief , Captain, and two Lieutenants . Elections for officers are held once each year . Each explorer introduced himself and told the Commissioners their future goals . Chairman Green thanked the men for attending the meeting and the Commissioners will provide whatever support they can for the Post . ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Chief Hopkins spoke about the draft copy of the proposed Fiscal Year 1992-1993 Budget . The preliminary budget hearing with Jan Lazar is on Tuesday, January 21 . He asked the Commissioners to review the budget and approve it at the February meeting . (Commissioner Trierweiler is the Chairperson of the Finance Committee . ) Assistant Chief Pung responded to Commissioner Sheathelm' s question from the December 1991 meeting concerning paving Raymond Drive next to the No . 2 Fire Station . The Public Service Department does not have any plans or funds to take care of the street . The neighborhood would have to petition the work to be done . Approval would also be required from City Council . It would be a major cost to the property owners . A discussion followed . Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - January 9, 1992 Page Three COMMITTEE REPORTS There were not any reports from the E .M. S . /Personnel Committee and the Planning Committees . Commissioner Sheathelm said expenditures for December 1991 totaled $841, 229 . The Chief commented on yesterday ' s meeting with the Mayor regarding overtime expenditures . The department is in good shape at this point . Commissioner Sheathelm hopes the department will be able to conduct two recruit classes during the year rather than once a year . The Chief intends to hire five people in the near future from the current pool . Hopefully they will not require an extensive amount of training . OLD/NEW BUSINESS Chairman Green said the draft budget would be reviewed by the Board ' s Finance Committee, and they would have a recommendation at the February Board meeting . GENERAL ORDER Explorer Jim Cherry thanked the Board for the opportunity to meet them. Commissioner Marin said she is pleased with the activity of the Board and how well they work together . Chief Hopkins said the Board has an impact . He enjoys their expertise; he wants more than advisory participation . Mr . Boyd spoke Dick Neller . Mr . Neller was satisfied after meeting with Chief Hopkins concerning the hazardous materials incident on East Michigan last fall . The Secretary, Dianna Emerson, said Mayor McKane has interviewed an applicant for the Board . This person will be referred for appointment at the next City Council meeting . Chairman Green attended the recent recruit graduation . It was a nice ceremony and he feels the department has an excellent group of new people joining L.F . D. He spoke briefly at that ceremony. Lansing Board of Fire Commissioners Official Proceedings - January 9, 1992 Page Four In his travels throughout the country, he has talked to people who have said the Lansing Fire Department is a very respected department . Commissioner Sheathelm has visited the various stations and the new personnel are fitting in without any problem. The meeting adjourned at 8 : 38 P.M. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Fire Board will be held at 7 : 30 P.M. , Thursday, February 13, 1992, at the Fire Station No . 1, 120 East Shiawassee Street , Lansing, Michigan . Respectfully submitted, Dianna L . Emerson, Fire Board Secretary