08-27-02 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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M 'a Personnel and Finance Committee August 27,2002 Page 4 Council Member Pfeifer inquired about the fire prevention programs which the Fire Department has in our neighborhoods which specifically addresses our aging housing stock. Chief Taylor stated that there is no specific program in place except for the smoke detector program and various educational programs. Council Member Kirsits noted that in some cases the older homes are built better than the newer homes. In response to a question raised by Council Member Pfeifer, Chief Taylor noted that the primary causes of fires in South Bend are accidental, stoves being unattended, children, and smoking. Council Member White inquired whether the department would have adequate supplies in light of the 0% guideline given in this area. Assistant Chief Switalski stated that in light of the fact that fuel was budgeted at $ 1.75 per gallon in the 2002 budget, the excess in this account is what is being used for additional increases in the supply area. Council Member White asked how the Chief envisions the South Bend Fire Department. Chief Taylor stated that he sees the firefighters as providing quality services to the private sector. They are striving to be the # 1 fire department in the State of Indiana who provide the highest level of services possible. Council Member Pfeifer inquired about language programs. Assistant Chief Magdalinski noted that twelve (12) firefighters completed the basic level Spanish class and that five (5) firefighters completed the Level II Spanish Class. The problem appears that the firefighters do not use the language enough. He added that one firefighter is a former teacher who has a degree in Spanish. Assistant Chief Buchanon added that he started one of the courses and found it difficult, and further noted that learning about Hispanic customs was extremely helpful. Council Member Pfeifer suggested that some mandatory education in this area should take place for all firefighters and police officers. She noted that she would support increasing the training budget in order that the City pay attention to our population. Assistant Chief Switalski added that those firefighters who have taken Spanish are assigned to Fire Station#4,which serves the population with the highest number of Hispanic residents. The Council Attorney inquired about the computer systems in the various fire stations, noting that this was an area of concern during wage negotiations. Assistant Chief Switalski noted that there have been some improvements especially with regard to primary recall, however there are also glitches in the system. In response to the Council Attorney's question on new programs implemented since 9/11, Chief Taylor noted that one of the primary improvements is the development of a Resource Directory where the various fire services have grown together much better than before. Common communications and all clear commands have also been improved. There may also be more funds available which are related to Homeland Security. Assistant Chief Magdalinski added that the State of Indiana will be receiving $4 million related to dealing with weapons of mass destruction. The State is further scheduled to receive an additional $ 60 million which will be directed to fire departments, police departments and EMS for disaster training, education and monitoring. This funding will be through the US Department of Justice. Updates to the Council on this funding and program implementation were requested.