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Staff outlines proposed fire/EMS cost-recovery program after 79 power-line responses last year
Summary
City staff proposed a cost-recovery program to recoup costs for defined emergency responses (downed power lines, hazardous materials, specialized suppression). Staff reported 79 power-line calls last year and emphasized using FEMA rates for disaster reimbursement and coordinating with utilities before setting fees.
City staff presented a proposed cost-recovery program intended to recover municipal expenses for certain emergency responses, including downed or damaged power lines, gas leaks, hazardous-material incidents, and specialized environmental or foam-suppression responses. The presenter said the city recorded "79 power line calls last year," with 41 occurring in December during a major ice storm, and indicated the move is tied to rising staffing and overtime costs related to a pending SAFER grant application.
Staff said the proposal would be implemented through a police-power ordinance that defines recoverable incidents and a separate resolution establishing a rate schedule. The presenter recommended considering FEMA rates so the city can recover costs during declared emergencies and emphasized outreach to utility companies before finalizing billing procedures. Commissioners asked for more refined numbers and expressed interest in reviewing a draft ordinance in August before any formal adoption.
