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Fire training center master plan awarded to SEH; chiefs report recruitment and policy workgroups
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Summary
Commissioners heard that SEH was selected for the fire department training center master plan at a low bid of $26,900 after review of multiple proposals. Staff also reported progress on firefighter recruitment, a fitness workgroup meeting and continued evaluation of tactical emergency medical services (TEMS).
The commission heard updates that the fire department’s training center master plan is moving forward with SEH selected as the consultant at a bid of $26,900.
Officials said the project cleared the board of public works and the common council and that SEH’s proposal was judged the best fit after a comparison with higher bids of roughly $68,000, $125,000 and others. Staff described SEH’s approach as relying on in-house personnel rather than many outside consultants, which leaders said produced better value for scope.
Fire department staff reported formation of a fitness workgroup, with commissioners Kirschmann and Meek, Deputy Chief Jonas, HR and other members scheduled to meet May 20. The department also said it is still evaluating tactical emergency medical services (TEMS) in coordination with the police department and expects to bring recommendations forward.
Recruitment was described as improving: two positions were offered in the last month and a third position is planned for Jan. 1, 2026. Staff also said more complex policies and procedures that require additional work will be postponed for the June meeting.
On billing and vendor items, staff noted use of a mobile health services vendor for NFPA 1582 physicals (recorded in the packet as "NFPA 15 82 physicals" in the meeting). The on-site vendor model allowed the department to complete the required exams over three days with reduced overtime, although staff reported some billing timing issues with an external clinic.
No new contracts were executed during the meeting; staff said documents will be finalized and workgroups convened to begin implementation of the training center master plan.
