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Chief Browning explains automatic-aid update: three firefighters per tanker
Summary
Resolution 2026-021 updates the automatic-aid agreement between the Kenai Peninsula Borough and City of Kenai; the main change is a move from two to three firefighters per tanker and the operational plan lays out automatic dispatching to reduce response delay.
The committee reviewed resolution 2026-021, an update to the automatic-aid agreement and operational plan between the Kenai Peninsula Borough and the City of Kenai covering the central emergency service area, Kasilof (CS) and Nikiski service areas, and the Kenai Fire Department.
Chief Browning, appearing online, said the operational plan designates how the agreement functions and what type of equipment and personnel will respond automatically. He explained the primary change in the update is staffing per tanker: the prior agreement specified two firefighters per tanker; the revised plan asks participating departments to provide three firefighters per tanker so both jurisdictions are dispatched simultaneously for qualifying incidents.
Mayor Michiqui asked whether the additional staffing would create extra costs. Chief Browning said costs depend on the nature and duration of incidents and whether backfill is required; he also noted the initial staffing ask had been higher and was reduced: "The initial ask originally was like 6 personnel, and we've trimmed that down to 3." The chief added that if resources are not available in an incident, the automatic-aid assignment can be declined.
The item was discussed but not voted on in committee; staff and the mayor discussed deleting a whereas clause that referenced a postponed City of Kenai council meeting so the resolution can be advanced.
