Fire Services Review panel votes to forward draft report to RTM after split vote

The Fire Services Review Special Committee voted on July 9 to authorize Chair Robert Tuneski to send a revised Draft #2 of the committee’s report to the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) for consideration in August. The motion, moved by Richard Muckle and seconded by Matthew Keatley, passed by voice vote with three members in favor (Muckle, Tuneski, Keatley) and two opposed (Tim Condon, Susan Driscoll).

The vote followed distribution of the revised draft and a round of discussion on wording, maintenance priorities and governance. Chair Tuneski said he had made some benign changes based on members’ recommendations and opened the floor for comments and questions. Tim Condon urged the report add more-specific recommendations to address a backlog of delayed capital projects, suggesting a townwide building committee to prioritize work. Chris Haley, director of Fire Services, proposed hiring an outside engineering consultant to review stations and prioritize needs. "We’ve been falling behind in regular maintenance and major repairs," Condon said, arguing clearer project sequencing is needed. Haley added the committee should consider changes to the volunteer incentive program and to the department’s definition of an "active volunteer."

Opponents to immediate forwarding, including Driscoll, voiced concern about final labeling and clarity. "The report should be labeled ‘Draft’ until it is accepted or approved by RTM," Driscoll said. Tuneski said he would make further edits and forward the draft as authorized. The committee adjourned at 7:28 p.m.

The revised draft will go to the RTM for its August meeting; the committee did not schedule a follow-up meeting pending RTM action.