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SFFD chief reports on recruiting, inspections and investigations; commission schedules follow-ups
Summary
Chief Joanne Hayes White told commissioners the 120th academy will graduate 51 recruits on Nov. 4, staffing changes include seven new inspectors and two new investigators, and the Bureau of Fire Investigation has 91 open reports. Commissioners asked about investigations, outreach, and strategic planning outcomes.
Chief of Department Joanne Hayes White delivered the department's regular report on Oct. 12, outlining recent staffing, training and outreach activities and answering commissioners’ questions.
Hayes White said the 120th academy class is nearing completion and that graduation is set for Nov. 4 at the University of San Francisco, with 51 recruits expected to graduate. She said planning is underway for the next class, which is scheduled to begin Nov. 28 and will include 54 members.
The chief reported progress on hiring and internal promotion: 40 members are in process for a per-diem paramedic classification, several candidates are in medical review, and the department plans an internal "bump-up" promotional class to move qualified EMTs toward paramedic roles.
On prevention and investigation staffing, Deputy Chief Mark Gonzales reported seven new inspectors assigned to the Bureau of Fire Prevention and two new investigators assigned to the Bureau of Fire Investigation. Gonzales said the number of open investigations decreased by seven from the previous month to 91 active reports.
Hayes White and Gonzales described outreach during the department's 150th anniversary events and Fire Prevention Week: the department distributed smoke alarms and children's helmets and staffed outreach booths. The chief also noted the department's continuing review of major projects — including the Warriors Arena, Central Subway and Moscone projects — with building-inspection partners.
Commissioners pressed for details on investigative timelines and outcomes. Fire Marshal staff said the target for completing fire investigations is 60 days with an average currently around 30–35 days for runs per month. Commissioner Nakaju asked for follow-up on the condition of a person rescued at 555 Clayton; Gonzales said the person was transported code 3 and was expected to survive.
Commissioners asked the chief about the mayor's strategic-planning retreat. Hayes White said the retreat identified cross-cutting challenges — affordability and livability, and public safety among them — and that follow-up meetings will produce a working report. The commission also discussed the civil grand jury review; Hayes White said many recommendations had been implemented or were in progress and thanked staff who presented at the grand jury hearing.
Votes at a glance: the commission approved minutes from the Sept. 12, 2016 meeting after a motion by Commissioner Michael Hardiman and a second; ayes were verbally recorded.
Commissioners requested that the harassment policy be added to the Oct. 26 agenda for more detailed discussion in light of recent allegations. Hayes White and staff acknowledged the request and pledged follow-up.
