Chief Hayes White updates commission on academies, stations and December fatal fire

Chief of Department Joanne Hayes White gave commissioners a detailed operations and facilities update at the Jan. 9 meeting, including staffing and academy scheduling, station renovation status and a summary of a recent fatal residential fire.

Hayes White told the commission the department expects the 125th recruit academy to begin Jan. 28 with 42 members slated to enter that day and additional recruits joining to form a class of about 54; a second academy is planned for September. She said the department had made 38 offers toward the Jan. 28 academy and was awaiting final medical clearances for a full complement.

On facilities, the chief reported Station 16 is nearing completion with punch‑list items under review and an expectation that members will reoccupy the station by the end of the month; Station 5 (Turk & Webster) had further delays with a projected completion now targeted for March 29. The department also continues planning for an ambulance deployment facility on Gerald and McKinnon and a broader training facility as part of bond planning.

Operations staff reviewed a Dec. 24 Clay Street fire that resulted in two occupants being initially reported trapped; one victim was found at scene and transported, and another was located later and subsequently died at the hospital. The department said the fire investigation is ongoing and that the stress/behavioral‑health unit provided on‑scene and follow‑up support for members.

Commissioners asked about peer support staffing; the chief said co‑leads remain resources and the department will advertise to fill the vacated stress‑unit position. Commissioners also requested further detail on capital project administrative fees (DPW) and emphasized continued advocacy for EMS resources and interagency coordination for homelessness and behavioral‑health responses.

The commission closed the item with thanks to department staff and acceptance of the report.