02-26-01 Health & Public Safety - Laserfiche WebLink

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Health and Public Safety Committee February 26,2001 Page 2 require 4 to 5 firefighters per apparatus. The second handout addressed the $ 100 million FEMA grant for various fire services. He noted that Assistant Chief Switalski will be the point person for submitting a grant request. Council Member White inquired as to what the basis of the proposed monthly cost was in the proposed interlocal agreement. Chief Taylor stated that the City had requested a per call basis initially. He noted that he believes the monthly amount is excessive, however the City Administration wished to error on the safe side. Dr. Varner inquired as to why the interlocal agreement was even contemplated. Mr. Bodnar stated that the timing was not perfect with the last offer being made on December 21st. Dr. Varner speculated that he sees the agreement as a direct result of the annexation and the time table which is dictated by state law. He voiced concern with regard to the proposed costs and the various contractual issues and questions which have been raised. Mr. Bodnar stated that the agreement would represent a good faith effort to provide services. Council Member White inquired about the service which would be provided in light of the price and inquired whether the price could be re-negotiated. Chief Taylor noted that the price is for a short period of time. Council Member Aranowski inquired as to what made up the $ 4,200 fee. Mr. Bodnar stated that the township totalled up the number of responses and divided that number. Council Member King voiced concern noting that Captain Stein and Captain Damiano of Local # 362 made inquiries back in November and that their concerns were never properly addressed. He questioned whether we are being as responsive as we should be. He voiced concern about good faith and respect being missing from this exchange involving the interlocal agreement. Chief Taylor stated that he met with Captain Stein in December noting that the agreement would be for a short period of time. The Union proposed that an additional company be added in the south end of the City and that a reserve pumper be used. Chief Taylor stated that such a proposal was not a part of the budget and that it had a potential cost of$ 100,000. Council Member Kirsits inquired as to why we were not servicing the area with our own fire apparatus. He asked why Centre Township was dictating all terms and conditions, since he believed that the South Bend Fire Department could cover 99 %of the calls excepting crop fires. Chief Taylor stated that there would be joint responses beginning March 6th. Council Member Kirsits stressed that living in the City has always meant better services for its citizens, however now the newly annexed area only receives volunteer services. He stated that those residents should receive a tax rebate.Council Member Ujdak inquired whether Mr. Bodnar had had the opportunity to review the