HARTWICK FIRE COMMISSIONERS MEETING
December 22, 2008
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 at Fire House #1. Those present were Commissioners Pat Ryan, Eileen Barown, Delos Field, and Dave Butler. Also present were Chief John Bush, Chief Mike Basile, EMS Captain Deborah Clegg, Terry Bunn, and Mike Staats. Absent: Ken Hotaling.
The minutes of the last meeting were read and discussed.
MOTION: Dave Butler moved to accept the minutes of the October 2008 meeting. Delos Field seconded, and the motion passed with all votes "Aye."
There have been
EMS-Debbie Clegg
There were 31 calls since the last meeting, many were mutual aid. There have been 237 calls to date this year.
The narcotics license has been sent to the state for renewal. The narcotics safe has been installed by Dave Butler and Debbie.
The Squad has 27 certified EMTs, including 11 who are ALS.
Company #1-John Bush
There have been 13 alarms since October. There have been drills on Standard Operating Procedures for chimney fires and MVAs, and different rescue techniques for victims trapped in vehicles.
The members had a presentation on "Right to Know," Station Safety, and Blood-born Pathogens.
John showed a picture of a proposed sign for Fire House #1. The Planning Board would like a picture for their files. Company #1 will raise the $3500-4000 needed for the sign. An access easement may be needed to reach the letters on Wilma Hurst's side of the sign.
Inventory sheets are ready and will be handed in soon.
The Department of Labor states that firefighters need 20 feet of rope and carabiners to be able to rappel out of buildings.
Pat would like to discuss the 2009 Budget with each Company.
Company #2-Mike Basile
There have been 20 calls since October, 161 YTD, which is 36 more than last year.
Mike reported on training courses and drills.
Company #2 will be hosting an Emergency Traffic Control Drill/Standard Operating Guideline Training Session in January, as part of their Tourism Grant requirements. They will be inviting the EMS, Company #2, and Mutual Aid area Fire Officers.
Other Activities:
- Planning Fire Prevention/Fund Raising Program on weekends in 2009 at the Commons
- Ford Bronco-radios are in and the EMS storage cabinet and aero stick need to be installed
- Have completed the final report for the Otsego County 2008 Tourism Grant for the amount of $4,400. All equipment is in with the exception of traffic vests
- Two new members have joined, including John Basile who has been added to the insurance policy.
- There is nothing new on the Clarity Connect issue
Kap's Krew's bill for the #2 generator was presented to the Commissioners in the amount of $9456. Kap's Krew will install the generator and Paraco will install the gas tank.
MOTION: Dave Butler moved to go ahead with the purchase of the generator for the installed price from Kap's Krew of $9456. Delos Field seconded, and the motion passed with all votes "Aye."
The transfer switch now at Fire House #2 can be used at the Community Center if a portable generator is used.
Budget Concerns:
Mike Basile asked for an energy audit. All Town Buildings need to conserve. Energy uses and costs were discussed.
A committee was formed to meet with the Buildings and Grounds Committee (Pat and Delos): From Fire #1, John Bush and Bobby O'Brien; From Fire #2, Mike Basile, and a member TBA. Pat has recommendations from the NYSERDA audit. The committee will meet in January.
Dave Butler has researched a laptop for the EMS Squad. It is a rugged Dell, necessary for use on the ambulance. It is rugged and waterproof, and he suggests purchasing a five-year service contract for an extra $250
MOTION: Eileen Barown moved to approve the purchase of a Latitude ATG (all terrain grade) Laptop Computer and five-year service contract for a total of $2869. Delos Field seconded, and the motion passed with all votes "Aye."
The Town will also order a digital Projector and screen that can be used by Town Hall and the Fire Departments.
The next meeting will be February 23rd 2009 at Fire House #2.
MOTION: Eileen Barown moved to adjourn at 8:35, Dave Butler seconded, and the motion passed with all votes "Aye."
Respectfully Submitted,
Regina M. Palmer
