Finance committee backs 'up to' funding approach for three fire department recommendations

The finance committee on June 23 recommended council support three immediate changes from a recent fire department assessment intended to stabilize personnel and training.

Staff presented three recommendations to be funded from the FY2027 reserve for contingencies: an EMS operational assessment (estimated up to $100,000) to review shift patterns and compensation; a civilian human-resources leadership position embedded in the department (estimated about $102,000 annually); and a sworn training lieutenant or captain to coordinate departmentwide training (estimated about $108,800). Miss Donna, who presented the item, said the study and positions are designed to address consistency in training, improve HR practices and assess whether the current 24-on/48-off shift remains operationally appropriate.

Committee members pressed staff on costs, timing and whether the fire union had been consulted; staff said the IAFF local provided input during the study. Members raised concerns about the long-term operating cost if the positions are continued beyond the one-time study and suggested that hiring timing be tied to funds moving out of contingency.

A council member moved that the committee authorize an "up to" transfer so money for the HR and training positions would be transferred from reserve only after the position is hired and only in the amount needed for the remainder of the fiscal year. The motion was seconded and the committee voted in favor; the motion carried with no recorded opposition. The recommendation will go forward to full council as the committee's formal recommendation.

The item will appear on the council agenda as a recommendation from the finance committee; staff said the HR and training roles would be advertised and that any unspent funds would remain in contingency until needed.