08-25-04 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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eommittEE cRE 2o't of tz n /� p / /� /� �E-T1Orinz.- and 91)2anaE (�ommtttEE of t 2E SouLI EEI2C common C:ounaiL negotiations went very well and were overwhelming accepted. Chief Quinn then introduced Assistant Fire Chief of Operations James Lopez, Assistant Fire Chief of Services Richard Switalski,Assistant Fire Chief of Inspections&Prevention Howard Buchanon II,Battalion Chief of EMS Randy Magdalinski, Battalion Chief of Instruction Mark Nowicki, Battalion Chief of Special Operations Metzger; James Weinberg & Mike Jameison representing Firefighters Local No. 362 who were all present for the committee meeting. Chief Quinn stated that the firefighters are looking forward to the upcoming opening of the new central fire station which may be dedicated as early as October 1st. He noted that Engine Company No. 8 was refurbished at a cost of$60,000, that three (3) medical units have been refurbished at the cost of$95,000 each, that three (3) emergency trailers with equipment and supplies have been purchased with Homeland Securities money, just to highlight a few of the many activities taking place this year. The emergency trailers will be housed at the new central fire station on Michigan Street,one in Mishawaka and one in Clay Township. Chief Quinn noted that some of the fire department's plans for 2005 include having two (2)recruit schools if at all possible; refurbishing a medic unit at a cost of$100,000; refurbishing Engine No. 4; replacing turnout gear which is currently six(6)years old and has an life of seven (7) years which would be used as backup; and carrying out all changes which were agreed to during the labor negotiations. He noted that the number of channels must be increased since it is a safety issue with the protected costs being $40,000 to $50,000. Having computers installed in all front line fire vehicles by utilizing Homeland Security funds are also a priority. Chief Randy Magdalinski stressed the need for a county-wide response since EMS units are assigned to specific regions. Chief of Operations James Lopez noting that he currently chairs the Anti-Terrorism Task Force which includes representatives from South Bend, Mishawaka and St. Joseph County. The Task Force make recommendations to the joint committee which is composed of the Mayors of South Bend and Mishawaka along with the three (3) County Commissioners. Any homeland security money is recommended for use through the two (2) committees. He noted that such an operation is the only one which he is aware of in the State of Indiana. Monies go to Emergency Management pursuant to state law and all towns and cities having a population of 25,000 people or more must be represented. The following monies have been received to date this year: 2004 Part 1 $1.1 million 2004 Part 2 $1.325 million 2005 Part 1 $1.5 million(anticipated) Council Member Dieter requested a breakdown of the equipment and supplies purchased to date. Personnel and Finance Committee Meeting of August 25,2004 Page 2