GHF&MO

Commissioners are elected by the public to 6 year terms. 

Scott Casebolt Chair	Tom Sutich	Randy Stevens	Kevin Entze	Bill Jarmon Vice Chair

Fire Chief Black	Asst. Chief Logistics  Watson	Asst. Chief Operations Burgess	Asst. Chief Safety & Support Services Miller

Gig Harbor Fire & Medic one has a total of 82 paid employees and approximately 60 volunteers.  Pierce County Fire District 5 responded to 4904 Dispatches during 2006.  (Go to Statistics for more information on types of responses.)

• Headquarters Station: 10222 Bujacich Rd. NW - 253-851-3111

• Prevention Division: 6711 Kimball Drive - 253-851-5111

2010 Minutes

January 11, 2010

January 25, 2010

January 25, 2010 Special Meeting

February 8, 2010

February 22, 2010

January 11, 2010

Chairman Casebolt called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.

Present were: Commissioners Sutich, Stephens, Entze and Jarmon, Chief Black, A/Chiefs Watson, Burgess & Miller, B/Chief Nixon, D/Chiefs Berlin, Lyon & Hulse, L. Abbott,

J. Brenner, P. Riley, Local 3390 Representatives, Shift Personnel, K. Kreitzer, Jerry Gibbs representing Kopachuck Ridge Estates, family and friends of FF Dower.

Our flag salute was led by Scott Casebolt.

A moment of silence was held for the two fallen officers; Pierce County Sheriff’s Deputy Kent Mundell and Grant County Deputy John Bernard.

Chief Black administered the oath of office to Scott Casebolt and Kevin Entze who were elected by the voters in the September 2009 primary to continue to serve as Fire Commissioners.

Elections were held to select the Chair and Vice-Chair for 2010. Commissioners Entze and Stephens moved and seconded a motion nominating Scott Casebolt as Chairman. Commissioners Stephens and Sutich moved and seconded a motion nominating Bill Jarmon as Vice-Chairman. With no further discussion, the motions carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Commissioners Sutich and Stephens moved and seconded approval of the minutes from the December 28, 2009 meeting as mailed. With no further discussion, the motion carried.

Commissioners Entze and Jarmon moved and seconded a motion to approve 2010 Payroll Vouchers 10031 - 10147 in the amount of $1,020,231.45; 13 month Blanket Vouchers 93779 - 93854 in the amount of $176,255.83 and 2010 Blanket Vouchers 10001 - 10030 in the amount of $94,397.80 for a total consideration of $1,290,885.08. With no further discussion, the motion carried.

No additional items were added to the agenda.

Chief Black presented the financial report summary for December 2009. Expense Fund balance totaled $6,443,017 in cash and investments for December. Revenues in the amount of $18,764,072 have been collected so far this year representing 104.88% of the revenues forecast for 2009. Expenditures utilized to date reached $18,212,468 (96.43%) of the total budgeted amount. Reserve Fund balance ended the month at $5,419,402 in total cash and invested funds. Earnings totaled $58,608.16 earned to date on investments from both the Expense and Reserve accounts. HRA year to date earnings totaled $6,778.66. Tax Collection figures for December; forecast amount was $105,517 (0.65%); actual amount collected was $99,885 (0.61%). YTD amount forecast 97.29%; actual amount collected 96.90%. Commissioners Jarmon and Stephens moved and seconded a motion to adjust the Reserve Fund summary page on the report as given. With no further discussion, the motion carried.

Chief Black updated the Board on the following:

Introduced the three new probationary firefighters in order of seniority, Jon Dower, Joel Barnett & Jonathan Kuriatnyk.

Alarms for 2009 are down 4 ½ % from last years numbers. Impact due to the opening of St. Anthony’s Hospital this year, will continue to track numbers.

Expressed his concern to continue to be fiscally conservative in spending.

Legislative Day 2010 will be held on January 20^th in Olympia. Three Commissioners will be attending this session.

Expanded on changes due to budgetary cuts in other states.

A/Chief Watson updated the board on the following:

Provided a detailed cost estimate for the Training Campus project. Copies of the report were provided to the Board for their review. He expanded on the increase of the overall estimate from last year and where the changes were made going from schematic designs to actual detailed design. Lt. Waters also expanded on the level of changes and the support for these changes. D/Chief Lyon spoke to the change in training props that resulted in the most increase of the overall costs.

A/Chief Burgess updated the Board on the following:

Spoke to the operational deployment changes and reduction of response times made by the staffing of Station 56 full-time as of January 1, 2010.

Chief’s interviews for Lieutenant promotions will begin later this month.

Updated the Board on the Fox Island house fire that occurred last week. Details were provided by B/Chief Nixon. Great response by all personnel, no injuries reported.

A/Chief Miller updated the board on the following:

Spoke on the safety of personnel and that no injuries were reported at either the Fox Island house fire or the training burn in which 45 personnel took part of.

Invited the Board to visit the new Clinic being set up here at Station 50. Thank you to Dale Togstad for all of his hard work on getting the clinic completed.

 

Pat Riley presented the Board with the Information Technology Division Report:

Completed installation of the IISU counter touch screen computers at stations.

TAG meetings are going well, setting up a temporary server for committee members to try out various vendor programs.

Finalizing data for the year end reports required by the state.

Chief Berlin presented the Board with the Medical Division Report:

Hosting the second Advanced Paramedic Airway Class for the County tomorrow here at District Headquarters.

Working on preparation and planning for the upcoming Health & Safety Expo held at District Headquarters on Saturday, March 13^th.

Updated the Board on the comparisons of reduction of revenues and responses since the opening of St. Anthony’s Hospital in 2009. December billings down $34,000; total for the year down $220,000. Transports down by 147 and incident reports down by 273 for 2009.

Chairman Casebolt and Commissioner Stephens informed the Board of their recent meeting with Gig Harbor City Council member Paul Conan regarding fire inspections. Information was exchanged regarding the importance of this program. Chief Black will be meeting with the City of Gig Harbor’s City Administrator and Fire Marshall tomorrow to discuss this matter in further detail. Commissioner Sutich inquired as to if the Board wanted to continue to negotiate with the City for this business. He recommends the City potentially contract with Pierce County to assist them in this mandated venture. Commissioner Jarmon reported there will also be cutbacks at the County level which may affect the City’s inspections. Commissioner Stephens stated he felt PCFD #5 should be involved due to the quality and timeliness of the inspections as being a very important issue. Scott Booth spoke on behalf of Local 3390 members stating they would like to continue to have access to the data as fire inspections and pre-plans keep firefighters safe. Further discussion continued on this issue.

Chairman Casebolt addressed the Board regarding the Capital Improvements Levy for the Training Campus project.

Shall we proceed with the project? Should we use borrowed monies or issue bonds?

His preference was to continue with the project now as we only have a five (5) year period to get it completed and costs will escalate if project is put off until a later date. He feels that going out to bid now would be good as the architects are reporting potential bids coming in 15-20% lower then projected.

Commissioner Sutich requested that a special board meeting dedicated to the Training Campus be held to consider all aspects of this project before making a final decision.

Commissioner Jarmon agreed that time be allowed to review the documentation and then discussion at a special meeting.

Commissioner Entze agrees but insists that time is of the essence to finalize the decisions.

Commissioner Stephens agrees with all.

At this time it was recommended that a Special Board Meeting be held on Monday, January 25^th at 6:00 pm solely for the purpose to discuss the Training Campus project and the Capital Improvement Levy. Commissioners Jarmon and Entze moved and seconded a motion to hold the Special Board Meeting as requested. With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Commissioner Jarmon expanded on the HB 1080 Allowing Efficient Use of Impact Fees which will be discussed at the upcoming Legislative Session in Olympia.

New Business
No new Business was introduced.

Jerry Gibbs introduced himself to the Board. He is a local citizen representing the Kopachuck Ridge Estates Homeowners Association along with Preserve Our Parks (POP) group which currently has 3300 members. Both the Kopachuck Ridge Estates HOA and POP no longer can utilize the meeting room at the Arletta Station #54 and he is here today to find out why this decision was made. A/Chief Watson and Chief Black addressed his concerns. Chief Black suggested that he and his staff will address his concerns and look for a possible compromise regarding local groups and HOA’s to utilize the meeting room. Open discussion continued with Commissioners Entze and Stephens both agreeing with Chief Black’s decision.

Chairman Casebolt announced the signing of documents.

Chairman Casebolt attended the recent Memorial Ceremony for Pierce County Sheriff’s Deputy Kent Mundell

2010 Legislative Day will be held on Wednesday, January 20, 2010 in Olympia.

Awards Banquet will be held on January 30, 2010 at the Inn at Gig Harbor. Invites were mailed last week, please RSVP to Joanne Brenner at Sta. 50 or e-mail rsvp@piercfire.org.

Pierce County Fire Commissioners meeting will be held on January 28^th at University Place #3 at 7:00 pm.

There being no further business to discuss, Commissioners Entze and Jarmon moved and seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 4:20 p.m. No further business was introduced and the motion carried. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held January 25, 2010 at 3:00 PM.

January 25, 2010

Chairman Casebolt called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.

Present were: Commissioners Sutich, Entze and Jarmon, Chief Black, A/Chiefs Watson, Burgess & Miller, B/Chief Pearson, D/Chiefs Berlin, Lyon & Hulse, J. Brenner,

Vol. D/Chief Teeple, Local 3390 Representatives, Shift Personnel

Commissioner Stephens has an excused absence.

Our flag salute was led by Bill Jarmon.

Chief Black reported on a letter received from Mr. Charles L. Woodke III, dated January 14, 2010 addressed to the Board of Commissioners requesting timely notification of any bond issue being placed on the ballot for the purpose of raising funds for the Fire Department within the Gig Harbor District. Copies of the letter were previously provided to the Board for their review.

Chairman Casebolt commented on the "Thank You" letters received from local citizens.

Commissioners Jarmon and Entze moved and seconded approval of the minutes from the January 11, 2009 meeting as mailed. With no further discussion, the motion carried.

Commissioners Entze and Jarmon moved and seconded a motion to approve Blanket Vouchers 10148 - 10238 in the amount of $230,121.29. With no further discussion, the motion carried.

No additional items were added to the agenda.

Chief Black updated the Board on the following:

Three agencies with which PCFD #5 has Interlocal agreements need both the Fire Chief and one Fire Commissioner Representative designated to serve on their Policy Boards. Chairman Casebolt inquired if Commissioner Jarmon would like to continue serving on the Westside Insurance Coop Policy Board along with Commissioner Sutich to serve on the HazMat Interlocal Policy Board. Both Commissioners agreed and Chairman Casebolt stated he would serve on the PSCORT (Technical Rescue Interlocal) Policy Board. The HazMat Policy Board will meet at Central Pierce Headquarters on February 9^th at 1:30 pm.

On January 12^th, Chief Hulse and I met with Rob Karlinsey and Dick Bower from The City of Gig Harbor to discuss the future of the Fire Code Inspection Program. The City seems motivated to keep the program running with the Fire Department conducting the inspections. They understand that we will not / cannot continue the inspections at no cost. Board members were provided copies of a memo from Dick Bower to Rob Karlinsey regarding the program. Another meeting is scheduled for January 26^th to discuss the continuation of the program.

Certification of 2009 Levies and 2010 Tax Rates has been received from the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer. Copies of the letter and a Tax Rate History chart were provided to the Board for their review.

Chief Black requested the Boards authorization to renew the contract with Paula Dillard and Ascent Partners for 2010 in order to complete the Performance Management Training and quarterly officer check-ins. Commissioners Entze and Sutich moved and seconded a motion authorizing Chief Black to enter into the agreement as presented. With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

A/Chief Watson updated the board on the following:

Awards Banquet is this Saturday, January 30^th at the Inn at Gig Harbor.

Special Board Meeting will be held tonight at 6 pm for Bond Levy Discussion.

Vol. D/Chief Teeple presented the Board with the Volunteer Division Report:

Reported on the recent Volunteer Deployment Committee meeting and the status of the volunteers participation within the district. Findings over the last year were that the volunteers come to most of the medical drills and fire training; statistics show they do not respond to the calls to use their training. Working on guidelines on what the District expects for volunteer participation along with incentives for them to turn out to calls. Encouraging the at home volunteers to do more ride-a-longs to supplement training and provide contact with career staff. Working on building the numbers in our residency program. We had good volunteer turnout at a few major incidents. Commissioner Entze inquired if there was a job description, criteria and expectations for volunteers. Chief Teeple stated they are expected to turn out for Tuesday night drills and they are provided minitors. The committee is currently working on job descriptions and expectations for the volunteers. Open discussion continued on the status of the volunteer program.

Chief Hulse presented the Board with the Prevention Division Report:

Results of the recent survey provided to the Board showed Business Preparedness was the area they were most interesting in hearing about. The Board was provided an overview of our involvement with Business Emergency Planning along with two handouts for their review. "Emergency Preparedness for Businesses" which outlines code requirements for commercial occupancies that are now required in Chapter 4 of the International Fire Code and "Open for Business" a preparedness planning tool that we provide to our local businesses. Open discussion continued on the programs offered.

Commissioner Jarmon reported on last week’s Legislative Session in Olympia in which Commissioner Sutich, Chairman Casebolt and he attended. He provided additional information on HB 2825 and Senate Bill 6592 which were discussed during the session.

Chief Black addressed the Board regarding the Meeting Room Usage at Station 54 and the recent concerns addressed at the January 11^th Board meeting by Mr. Jerry Gibbs on behalf of Kopachuck Ridge Estates HOA and the Preserve Our Parks group. His concerns have been discussed and a decision was made based on the growth of PCFD #5. Station 54 has the only meeting room available for public use and the District will accommodate the needs of local neighborhood and community based groups to utilize the meeting room at Station 54 Wednesday – Saturday, 6 – 10 pm. Guidelines for reserving the rooms will be drawn up and Mr. Gibbs will be notified of the decision made.

A/Chief Burgess addressed the Board regarding the Tacoma Narrows Airport. When Pierce County purchased the airport PCFD #5 became the responsible primary agency for providing services to the airport. Chief Lyon has made training recommendations and Lt. Duncan will be working on an Incident Action Plan (IAP). Pierce County has a ten year plan and they have asked us for our input to develop recommended changes. We have met with the PC Operations Manager to discuss our recommendations and will continue to work with them on providing the best services to the airport. A Crash Truck has become available for the airport through King County at no cost to the District. Chief Watson has researched the vehicle and Chief Lyon has been in contact with the King County Training Chief as they have offered to train our personnel on this vehicle. Commissioner Entze inquired about risk management and stated his appreciation for the District being pro-active on this issue. With the two upcoming events at Chambers Bay Gold Course they are expecting 200 plus airplanes to be utilizing the airport. Chief Burgess recommended that we proceed with getting the crash truck, Chief Watson agreed as we would like to take possession as soon as possible. Further discussion continued on the placement of the crash truck and pending improvements to the airport. Chief Black recommended the Board authorize acquisition of the Crash Truck from King County. The Board approved Chief Black’s request to acquire the Crash Truck from King County for the purpose of servicing the Tacoma Narrows Airport.

A/Chief Watson requested the Boards authorization for Call for Bids for Paving of District Stations/Facilities. Copies of the Recommendation and Budget Recap outlining the pavement condition and cost of repairs for all District facilities were provided to the Board for their review. Commissioners Entze and Sutich moved and seconded a motion to approve the Call for Bids for paving as presented. With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

There was no Public Comment.

Chairman Casebolt announced the signing of documents.

Chairman Casebolt reported at the recent Legislative Day he spoke with personnel from the State Council and Al Church from WA State Fire Chiefs regarding Exposure Reporting. Three firefighters in the last few years in Tacoma have died of cancer and have not been able to get duty connected. Research is being conducted on what fires these personnel were at. There is an Exposure Reporting program available through a private company, which California currently uses. Further details were provided on the program and the possibility of utilizing it in Washington State.

Commissioner Sutich reported that he and Commissioner Jarmon spoke to Larry Seaquist, 26^th District Representative regarding the simple majority for EMS Levies and Impact Fees during last weeks Legislative Day. Further discussion entailed.

Chairman Casebolt reported on the top ten issues discussed during Legislative Day.

Awards Banquet will be held this Saturday, January 30, 2010 at the Inn at Gig Harbor.

Pierce County Fire Commissioners meeting will be held at 7:00 pm on January 28^th at University Place Fire #3-2.

Pierce County Fire Chief’s Association meeting will be held at 11:30 am on Thursday, February 4th at East Pierce Fire #16.

Special Board of Commissioners Meeting will be held tonight at 6:00 pm for Bond Levy Discussion for Capital Improvements.

There being no further business to discuss, Commissioners Entze and Jarmon moved and seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 4:10 p.m. No further business was introduced and the motion carried. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held February 8, 2010 at 3:00 PM.

January 25, 2010

Chairman Casebolt called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Present were: Commissioners Sutich, Entze and Jarmon, Chief Black, A/Chiefs Watson, Burgess & Miller, B/Chiefs Pearson & Meyer, D/Chief Lyon, J. Brenner, Vol. D/Chief Teeple, Lt. Waters, Lt. Cooper, Local 3390 Representatives, Shift Personnel, Jim Scott from the Tacoma Fire Department

Commissioner Stephens has an excused absence.

Our flag salute was led by Kevin Entze.

Chairman Casebolt announced the opening of the session of the Bond Levy Discussion for Capital Improvements.

Lt. Waters presented the Board with a PowerPoint presentation of the Training Campus Construction project. Packets were provided to the Board which consisted of an overview of the presentation covering the three phases of the project.

Commissioner Sutich asked the following questions:

Is there a reason why we don’t use the Kitsap Regional Training facility? Lt. Waters stated that Kitsap County Fire Departments have a difficult time getting into the facility as it is a multi-jurisdictional regional training center and is booked due to the heavy military presence.

Why is there a computer control center as opposed to a live person control? Lt. Waters stated this is a safety issue, there will be both the control center for the burners and there will be an instructor on site during Live Fire training.

Commissioner Jarmon asked the following questions:

What is the overall height of the tower? Lt. Waters stated 53 ft. to the top.

Will there be simulators for electrical and power poles. Lt. Waters presented an additional view of the tower with depicted power poles in place.

Why can’t the building be straight across to give more area for use? Lt. Waters explained the City of Gig Harbor planning law states you can only have 50 ft. of straight wall before you need to reposition it. Additionally specific architectural designs are dictated by the City of Gig Harbor (ie. multiple building material/surfaces) resulting in increased cost to the project.

 

Chairman Casebolt asked the following questions:

Will the large room in the Training Center be set up with movable dividers to feature different scenarios for large area searches? Lt. Waters stated the area is designed as an open space so they can put in movable walls for training.

Inquired on the various rooms on the first floor training area. Lt. Waters explained in further detail the use of these rooms and the surrounding structures. Chief Lyon commented further on the structure of this floor for live fire training and Chief Miller stated the live fires will be natural gas and will be smoke-less.

Commissioner Entze asked the following questions:

Inquired if we get a ladder truck would it be stationed here or 58? Chief Burgess said it would be kept at 51. The training building would hold reserve ladder truck.

Chief Black presented the Board with the Finances & Election Data. He thanked Lt. Waters for his presentation. Copies of a packet from the Capital Finance Committee detailing all of the information the Board would need to make a decision regarding the Training Campus Capital Improvement Bond Issue were provided to the Board for their review. Items included in the packets were discussed in further detail which included the recommendation from the Capital Finance Committee, Pros and Cons of the Bond Levy, Tax Levy History charts and the 2010 Submittal Deadlines for elections. Open discussion continued on these various arenas.

Chief Black discussed the 2010 election deadlines and due dates for submission of materials in further detail. Open discussion continued. Chairman Casebolt then asked if all Commissioners were in agreement in going forth on the Bond Levy, all were in agreement. He then asked if all were in favor of the Bond Levy to be listed on the August 17^th primary election ballot. Chairman Casebolt along with Commissioners Entze and Jarmon stated they were all in favor of the August 17^th Primary Election date. Commissioner Sutich stated he preferred waiting until 2011.

Commissioner Sutich stated the length of the Bond would have to be determined. Chief Black stated that for 10 million dollar Bond Levy at 20 years it would be .08 cts. per $1,000 and for 10 years it would be 0.13 cts per $1,000. Chairman Casebolt stated the 10 year levy would be advisable and asked if all Commissioners were in agreement on this, they all were in agreement with Chairman Casebolt. Further discussion continued on financing issues.

Chief Black recommended approximately $9.5 million subject to consulting with the Bond Underwriter and the Architect.

Commissioner Entze and Jarmon moved and seconded a motion to place the Bond on the August 17^th, 2010 ballot requesting $9.5 million for the purpose of completing the Training Campus project as outlined and to be repaid over a period of 10 years. With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Further discussion continued on educating the citizens. Chief Black asked the Board to make Committee Appointments well ahead of the deadline to begin promoting the ballot issue. Chairman Casebolt asked for suggestions for names and suggested the Local should also be involved in this venture.

Further discussion continued on educating the public. Lt. Waters stated that the Training Campus Committee will have a booth in the lobby at the March 13^th Health & Safety Expo. Commissioner Sutich inquired if the Auditor writes the ballot, Chief Black stated Joe Quinn writes the Ballot title for us and the Prosecutors office has to approve it. Commissioner Jarmon stating the Bonding company also makes recommendations on how it should be written subject to review by our counsel. Chief Black stated there have been some changes that law. Open discussion continued.

There being no further business to discuss, Commissioners Entze and Jarmon moved and seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:23 p.m. No further business was introduced and the motion carried. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held February 8, 2010 at 3:00 PM.

February 8, 2010

Chairman Casebolt called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.

Present were: Commissioners Sutich, Entze, Stephens and Jarmon, Chief Black, A/Chiefs Watson, Burgess & Miller, B/Chief Pearson, D/Chiefs Berlin, Lyon & Hulse, L. Abbott, J. Brenner, Local 3390 Representatives, Shift Personnel, Paula Dillard, K. Kreitzer, L. Jarmon

Our flag salute was led by Randy Stephens.

No communications were received.

Commissioners Jarmon and Sutich moved and seconded approval of the minutes from the Regular Board Meeting held January 25, 2009 as mailed. Commissioners Jarmon and Sutich moved and seconded approval of the minutes from the Special Meeting held at 6:00 pm on January 25, 2009 as mailed. With no further discussion, the motions carried. Commissioner Jarmon noted an excellent job on the minutes done by J. Brenner.

Commissioners Entze and Jarmon moved and seconded a motion to approve Blanket Vouchers 10239 - 10325 in the amount of $88,387.03 and Payroll Vouchers 10326 - 10444 in the amount of $ 1,049,698.75 for a total consideration of $1,138,085.78. With no further discussion, the motion carried.

No additional items were added to the agenda.

Chief Black presented the financial report summary for January 2010. Expense Fund balance totaled $5,063,506 in cash and investments for January. Revenues in the amount of $141,496 have been collected so far this year representing 0.78% of the revenues forecast for 2010. Expenditures utilized to date reached $1,344,748 (7.20%) of the total budgeted amount. Reserve Fund balance ended the month at $5,419,402 in total cash and invested funds. Tax Collection figures for January were not provided. Commissioners Jarmon and Entze moved and seconded a motion to approve the report as given. With no further discussion, the motion carried.

Chief Black updated the Board on the following:

Rice Fergus Miller, Architects will be hosting a two day event titled Fire Station Forum "Responding to Unprecedented Events" on Thursday, April 22^nd and Friday, April 23^rd. The Educational Session on April 22^nd will be held here at PCFD #5 District Headquarters. This event is presented by Washington Fire Chiefs in cooperation with the Washington Fire Commissioners Association. Copies of the informational flyer were provided to the Board for their review.

Now that we have staffed our 5^th station on a full-time basis, it is necessary to appoint some new lieutenants. At the same time it makes sense to address the BC and AC appointments that are currently on a "temporary" basis. Interviews are underway and will be completed so that we can return to the Board with a recommendation at the February 22^nd meeting. The goal is to make the appointments effective March 1^st and to have a new officer ceremony at the meeting of March 8^th.

Division Chief Hulse and I continue to meet with City Officials to find agreement for the funding of the Fire Code Inspection program. The City is unable to fund the entire cost of the program and the program has definite value to the District from a safety standpoint. We are trying to find a formula for cost sharing by the district, businesses, and the City that will be acceptable to the Board of Fire Commissioners. Will continue to update the Board as information is received.

The District’s policy on meeting room usage will be revised to allow use of the Station 54 meeting room by neighborhood and community oriented groups on a limited basis. This is the only station that still has a meeting room available. The recommendation is that it will be made available Wed – Fri from 6 – 10 pm and Saturday from noon to 8 pm. Copies of the e-mail response to Mr. Gibbs were provided to the Board for their review.

If the process to select a new Chief is to begin around October 1^st of this year, the Board should begin to consider how it would like to develop the process, eligibility requirements, etc. Copies of the Management Team Plan of March 9, 2008 were provided to the Board for their review.

A/Chief Watson updated the Board on the following:

State Bid Brush truck has been received and is currently at the shop.

Final specs are being developed for the two pumpers to be purchased next year.

A/Chief Burgess updated the Board on the following:

Updated the Board on PCFD #16 status of response personnel. They have moved all personnel to the Home, WA location and allowed minimum staffing to drop to three (3) personnel. There is a potential of District #16 extending for support from South Kitsap Fire & Rescue and PCFD #5. A commitment of the current level of support is all that can be authorized at this time. This was determined after a meeting was held between the three agencies. Some open discussion continued.

A/Chief Miller updated the Board on the following:

The conversion of all physical assessments being done at the new clinic at Station 50 is complete. With dedicated doctors and nurses doing the evaluations, close to 30 assessments have been completed so far. Positive feedback has been received.

Chief Berlin presented the Board with the Medical Division Report:

2009 billings were down by $218,000.00; this is a 12% reduction from 2008.

An updated EMS fee matrix for billing fees will be provided next month.

Medicare will not approve payment of any transport except to an emergency room.  At this time further review will be done to determine if the Scheduled Transports program will continue.

Commissioner Jarmon received communication requesting he serve as the Risk Management Advisor for the Washington Fire Commissioners Association. This is a newly created position within the WFCA Board of Directors and Commissioner Jarmon has been appointed to assist in this arena.

Paula Dillard addressed the Board regarding the Performance Management Training which has been provided by Ascent Partners to all district employees. Copies of the Project Review/Update were provided to the Board for their review. The Board noted appreciation for her help throughout the years.

A/Chief Watson addressed the Board regarding the Station 53 & 57 remodel project. He updated the Board on the projects planning session and agreement with Rice Fergus Miller, Architects which has been reviewed by Joe Quinn. He requested the Board authorize Chief Black to sign into agreement with Rice Fergus Miller to continue with the plan preparations. Commissioners Sutich and Stephens moved and seconded a motion authorizing Chief Black to enter into the agreement as presented. With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

A/Chief Watson introduced Resolution 2010-01 declaring the Fire Hose identified on "Attachment A" surplus to the needs of the district and authorizing disposal. Copies were provided to the Board for their review. A/Chief Watson recommended the Board adopt this Resolution as presented.  Commissioners Entze and Stephens moved and seconded a motion to adopt Resolution 2010-01 as presented, declaring the Fire Hose identified on "Attachment A" surplus to the needs of the district and authorizing disposal.  With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Chief Black addressed the Board regarding the Ballot Issue "For" & "Against" Committee Appointments that are due by the May 25^th deadline. The Board appointed the committee members that have asked to be on the "Against" Committee, they are: John W. Watt, Lance Woodke and Charles L. Woodke. He recommended the Board authorize the appointment of these three citizens to the "Against" Committee. Commissioners Sutich and Entze moved and seconded the appointment of these citizens to this committee. With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

At this time Chairman Casebolt announced a Closed Session, per RCW 42.30.110(1)(g) that will be held for the purpose of evaluating the qualifications of an applicant for public employment or to review the performance of a public employee. Commissioners Jarmon and Sutich moved and seconded a motion to adjourn into a Closed Session for 20 minutes and reconvene at 4:10 pm. At 4:10 pm the Board extended the Closed Session for an additional 25 minutes. Chairman Casebolt reconvened the meeting at 4:35 pm. No announcement was made.

Chairman Casebolt announced that Item d. under New Business be deleted from the Agenda and tabled until a later date. Commissioners Sutich and Stephens moved and seconded a motion for Item d. Fire Chief Contract Extension be deleted from the Agenda and tabled until a later date. With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

There was no Public Comment.

Chairman Casebolt announced the signing of documents.

L. Abbott provided an update on the State Auditors report regarding the current fraud investigation.

Lt. Waters reported that D/Chief Lyon recently completed the National Society of Executive Fire Officer’s course. He also stated during the Legislative Day in Olympia he met with Rep. Larry Seaquist, who stated his support for the Training Campus project.

Commissioner Jarmon complemented the staff on the Annual Banquet and reported on the dispatch issues discussed at the recent PC Fire Chief’s Association meeting.

Chairman Casebolt congratulated all of the 2009 Award winners and reported on the recent article published in the Peninsula Gateway on the Training Campus project.

Pierce County Fire Commissioners meeting will be held at 7:00 pm on February 25^th at Graham #21.

There being no further business to discuss, Commissioners Entze and Jarmon moved and seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 4:45 p.m. No further business was introduced and the motion carried. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held February 22, 2010 at 3:00 PM.

Chairman Casebolt called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.

Present were: Commissioners Sutich, Entze, Stephens and Jarmon, Chief Black, A/Chiefs Watson, Burgess & Miller, AB/Chief Kauppila, D/Chiefs Lyon & Hulse, L. Abbott, J. Brenner, Local 3390 Representatives, Shift Personnel, K. Kreitzer, Bob O’Brien

Our flag salute was led by Scott Casebolt.

No communications were received.

Commissioners Jarmon and Entze moved and seconded approval of the minutes from the February 8, 2010 meeting as mailed. With no further discussion, the motion carried.

Commissioners Entze and Jarmon moved and seconded a motion to approve Blanket Vouchers 10445 - 10523 in the amount of $130,720.37. With no further discussion, the motion carried.

No additional items were added to the agenda.

Chief Black updated the Board on the following:

He and Commissioner Sutich attended the recent HazMat Coop Policy Board meeting on February 9^th at station 60. The main topics for discussion were Ops, Training, and billing for services. Ops are going well. It is hoped that out-of-county responses will be handled through PCDEM’s request process. Training has a good quarterly plan for team drills of four hours each. The lead agency will look at a policy change that will allow for a time-based decision to bill commercial haulers that are deemed responsible for a HazMat response.

2010 Tax Comparisons of FD tax rates, levies, and assessed valuations were provided to the Board for their review. While our combined tax rate (all funds) is relatively low, our high assessed value allows us to collect a generous amount.

Copies of the February 19^th WFCA Legislative Report were provided to the Board for their review. HB 1080 Impact Fees is still alive and HB 2823 passed the House.

Training D/Chief Tracy Lyon was presented with a National Fire Academy Certificate of Completion for the Executive Fire Officer Applied Research Project. The Board congratulated him for a job well done.

A/Chief Watson updated the Board on the following:

He and Lt. Waters provided PowerPoint presentations to all shifts regarding the Training Campus Project. Commissioner Sutich referenced the tax comparison report from Chief Black suggesting it be utilized in promoting the Training Campus Bond issue.

A/Chief Burgess updated the Board on the following:

No Report

A/Chief Miller updated the Board on the following:

No Report

Chief Hulse presented the Board with the Prevention Division Report:

§ Reported that there has been no response back from the City of Gig Harbor regarding continuance of the inspection program.

§ Informed the Board of her introducing the City of Gig Harbor to the TEGRIS Fire Inspection program that could support the City’s needs. They offer a web based program that is designed to connect property owners, certified inspectors and fire marshals together to assure that confidence testing is accomplished in accordance with the International Fire Code. City of Gig Harbor plans to run a pilot program with TEGRIS. Copies of the TEGRIS brochure were provided to the Board for their review. Commissioner Stephens was insured that this is not a self inspection process. He further elaborated that this was similar to what was being administered in the City of Puyallup. Some open discussion continued. D/Chief Hulse stated the Survey and Rating Bureau accepts this program.

Commissioner Jarmon requested Division Chief Hulse update the Board on the recent fire loss sustained at the LeBistro Restaurant. She reported that the cause is inconclusive at this time. One firefighter sustained an injury to his ankle and will be returning to work soon.

Chief Lyon presented the Board with the Training Division Report:

The three newest members of GHFMO are doing well at the Central Pierce Recruit Academy. He has spent a lot of time observing at the Academy; so far it is an outstanding program. Graduation will take place on May 1, 2010 at Rogers High School at 1:00 pm.

Firefighter II HazMat Testing took place on January 22^nd and 23^rd here at GHFMO. Nine firefighters signed up for the test. He expressed concern that the certification program could be eliminated within the State of Washington. Open discussion continued regarding the possibility of the loss of this program.

No Standing Committee Reports were introduced.

At this time Chairman Casebolt announced a Closed Session, per RCW 42.30.110(1)(g) that will be held for the purpose of evaluating the qualifications of an applicant for public employment or to review the performance of a public employee. Commissioners Jarmon and Entze moved and seconded a motion to adjourn into a Closed Session for 15 minutes and reconvene at 3:40 pm. Chairman Casebolt reconvened the meeting at 3:42 pm. No announcement was made.

Chairman Casebolt addressed the Board regarding the Fire Chief Contract Extension which was tabled from the February 8^th Board meeting. Commissioners Stephens and Entze moved and seconded a motion to approve a one year contract extension for Chief Black. With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Chief Black addressed the Board on Promotion Recommendations due to the full-time staffing of Station 56. Based upon testing that established eligibility lists, chiefs’ interviews, and work performance, it is my pleasure to recommend to the Board of Fire Commissioner that the following promotions be made with an effective date of March 1, 2010: Mike Miller to the permanent position of A/Chief of Safety and Support Services; Steve Nixon to the permanent position of Battalion Chief; Scott Booth, Dan Bjurstrom, Calvin Johnson and Noah Falk to the positions of Lieutenants. At this time Chief Black recommended the Board acknowledge and approve the promotions of the six selected personnel. Commissioners Jarmon and Stephens moved and seconded the motion authorizing promotion of the six personnel as presented.  With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Open discussion continued prompted by Commissioner Sutich remark regarding the two medics being promoted to Lieutenants. A swearing-in ceremony will be held for all at the March 8^th Board meeting. Family, friends and all personnel are invited to attend.

Chairman Casebolt addressed the Board on Performance Evaluation Training for the Commissioners. A/Chief Burgess will contact Paula Dillard at Ascent Partners as to the level appropriate to the Board members. The time and training plan will be determined at a later date.

There was no Public Comment.

Chairman Casebolt announced the signing of documents.

Pierce County Fire Commissioners meeting will be held at 7:00 pm on February 25^th at Graham #21.

Pierce County Fire Chief’s Association meeting will be held at 11:30 am on Thursday, March 11^th at Dupont Fire - 1780 Civic Dr.

Northwest Leadership Seminar will be held March 3 – 5^th at the Red Lion in Jantzen Beach, Oregon. Four members of the Board will be attending the seminar. It was noted that no department personnel will attend this year due to cutbacks in the Training budget.

Gig Harbor Health & Safety Expo will be held on Saturday, March 13^th from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm here at District Headquarters.

There being no further business to discuss, Commissioners Jarmon and Entze moved and seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 3:54 p.m. No further business was introduced and the motion carried. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held March 8, 2010 at 3:00 PM.