HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-BFC-2015-08-11City of Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
Present:
Chair Gilligan
Commissioners Ellsworth, Sparks, Hoard
Fire Chief Parsons
Information Management Specialist Myers
Excused:
CC Liaison/Alderperson Fleming
Call to Order:
Chair Gilligan called the meeting to order at 1604 hours.
Approval of Minutes:
Approval of the July 14, 2015 Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes -
Resolution
By Commissioner Hoard: Seconded: Commissioner Ellsworth
RESOLVED, That the minutes of the July 14, 2015 Board of Fire Commissioner
Meeting be approved with noted corrections.
Carried Unanimously
Additions to/Deletions From the Agenda:
There were no additions to or deletions from the agenda.
Persons Wishing to Speak to the Board of Fire Commissioners:
No one appeared to address the Board.
Mr. Lyman Baker provided the following report (under separate cover after the meeting)
regarding Work Hours in the City Cemetery:
“RE: Work Hours
Dear Board,
Raymond B. Wheaton and Lyman E. Baker have mowed/trimmed the Firemen’s Section
in the Ithaca City Cemetery for a total of 3 hours each.
Respectfully,
Lyman E. Baker,
Badge #3258”
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
2
Correspondence:
Chair Gilligan reported that the bank statement from the Tompkins Trust Company for
the donation fund dated July 31, 2015 had a beginning balance of $2,651.61, and an
ending balance of $2,651.61, reflecting no activity.
Chair Gilligan further reported that the bank statement from the Tompkins Trust
Company for the Rescue Squad Donation fund dated July 31, 2015 had a beginning
balance of $1,845.38, and an ending balance of $1,845.50, reflecting .12 interest
earned.
Membership Changes:
Removal of Volunteer Member from Company #9 of the Ithaca Fire Department -
Resolution
By Commissioner Ellsworth: Seconded by Commissioner Sparks
RESOLVED, That the Board of Fire Commissioners was notified by Andrew Adams,
Secretary of Company #9, that effective August 5, 2015, John Zeiger was removed from
the Company #9 membership rolls and is no longer a member of Company #9 nor a
volunteer with the Ithaca Fire Department.
Carried Unanimously
Miscellaneous Reports:
Town of Ithaca: Chair Gilligan reported that he attended the August 10, 2015 Town of
Ithaca Board meeting, and presented his quarterly report to them. The report is
attached to the minutes.
He stated that the Board did have some questions related to “revenue and gift” amounts
as shown in the budget information for the department. Fire Chief Parsons explained
that the figures in the budget are estimated; he will adjust the report to reflect actual
figures at this point in time. They also questioned whether or not the 10% cost sharing
for the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus was already in the budget or would a
request be made for that funding. Chief Parsons responded that it was already in the
department’s budget. They also wondered what kind of equipment the “Skid” is. Chief
Parsons responded that it is a removable unit, it has no wheels, and is kept in the back
of the Fire Department’s pick-up truck. It is used to help fight fires in open areas.
City of Ithaca:
Vice Chair Sparks attended the August 5, 2015, Common Council Meeting to present
the quarterly report from the Board of Fire Commissioners. The report will be attached
to the minutes.
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
3
Vice Chair Sparks reported that Common Council members expressed a sentiment of
disappointment that Commissioner Hoard was not at the meeting.
Audit:
The audit was reviewed and approved by Commissioner Hoard.
Department Reports:
Fire Chief Parsons’ monthly report will be attached to the minutes. He updated the
Board on the following items:
Firefighter Bargher retired on August 9th; Firefighter Gessini has given notice of his
intent to retire on September 21, 2015.
Chief Parsons was given approval to fill the two Firefighter positions in anticipation of
the two retirements. Firefighter Velado was hired on July 20th, and Firefighter Cacciotti
was hired on July 25th. They both began recruit firefighter training at the New York
State Fire Science Academy on July 25, 2015.
Chief Parsons reported that everything in the departments’ budget seems to be on track
as planned thus far in the year. Please refer to his monthly report for a breakdown of
the revenue and expenses to date. He stated that the Mayor required every department
to submit proposed budgets with a 0% increase in funding. The City is anticipating
health care costs for 2016 to increase significantly. He submitted a budget that keeps
staffing at its current level with no loss of positions. The administrative and operations
costs for the department were reduced to meet the 0% requirement so it remains the
same as for 2015. The City’s property tax cap is based upon the current CPI and there
are no growth factors right now. In addition, Common Council has given guidance to
Department Heads as they prepared budgets that they want the City’s budget kept
within the property tax cap limits. For the City of Ithaca, the tax cap for 2016 will be
0.7% above the 2015 budget.
Chief Parsons reported that he would be meeting with the Mayor and City Controller
within the next couple of weeks to review his budget submission. The meeting will
basically confirm that his budget submittal included real numbers. The Ithaca Fire
Department would like more funding in order to have the Deputy Fire Chief position
filled, but the budget does not allow for that right now. He is happy to leave the
department status quo unless the Mayor wants to add something to it. He noted that if
he had more money in the budget, it would go towards more firefighters, which would
help operationally to help cover for staff shortages due to extended illness; retirements
and vacancies that go unfilled.
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
4
Commissioner Hoard asked what would happen to the department if something should
happen to the Fire Chief. Chief Parsons responded that one of the Assistant Chiefs
could be asked to step in temporarily to fill the position until decisions are made. He
stated that former Asst. Chief Dorman is available on a per diem basis to assist with
decision making and whatever else there is. He has been very helpful coming in when
the office required some extra help. Currently, he comes in about 1 day every other
week to keep up with the activities of the department.
The Mayor's proposed 2016 budget will be released on October 1st and will be available
for everyone to review after that.
Chief Parsons reported that there is no update from Tompkins County and the 9-1-1
Programs. He is still working with staff on the request for proposals for the self-
contained breathing apparatus. They are waiting on a delivery date for the new skid
unit; they expect delivery sometime later this month.
He further reported that they should soon be finalizing a contract with Kingsbury
Architects on a study to possibly re-locate the Collegetown Fire Station to another
location on East Hill. The study will also include a facilities assessment of the
Collegetown Fire Station, which will identify repairs that will be needed over the next
twenty (20) years if the City decides to keep the current building. The results of the
study are expected to be returned to the City by the end of September.
Chief Parsons reported that he submitted a capital project request to the Mayor for
consideration that would begin the design work for a new fire station. That way, when
the design is approved, and Common Council wants to move forward with the project
there would be a funding stream for it.
The department is a little ahead in the number of calls from last year. Asst. Chief
Tracey provided a training report summary for the Board. The fire/police unit is listed in
the report - just for the training statistics. He will ask Asst. Chief Tracy to
prepare a similar report just for Company #9, and then e-mail it to the Board.
Chair Gilligan stated that he had one question for the Chief regarding the proposed
construction of a new training facility. The initial site for the training center had been on
Pier Road and near to the current training facility; however, a determination was made
that the site is “parkland” and has to be maintained as such. Is that project on hold
permanently?
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
5
Chief Parsons responded that nothing has been done because there was no funding
commitment from the County for a combined training center. It is something that will
need to be built; maybe somewhere else that works for everyone. A location in the City
is the best location so far, and the parkland issue could be abated if it wanted to be.
Vice Chair Sparks noted that as more tall buildings are built in the City of Ithaca, it
would seem that City management will need to increase the Fire Department’s budget
as well to meet the increased coverage area.
Chief Parsons thanked Vice Chair Sparks for that comment and support. It is becoming
increasingly difficult for the department to maintain its current level of service and fire
prevention inspections as development occurs. Development is good, as long as the
proceeds to the City from the development are used to support the Fire Department --
the department that will need to provide fire support for it. A lot of times, the funding
from development has not always been directed to the departments that need it –
meaning both the Fire Department and the Department of Public Works.
Vice Chair Sparks responded that if the Board can do anything to support the Chief’s
efforts/department in requesting from the City the funding it needs to provide that
coverage for the new development, to please let the Board know. Chief Parsons stated
that the City’s tax base has and will continue to increase as more and more
development occurs. However, the City has borrowed a lot of money to make up for
shortfalls and invested in non-permanent fixtures by borrowing for them. That debt
needs to be paid back to keep the operational budget money for other needs. He is
trying to control capital project expenditures because within the next five years the
department will need to purchase a heavy rescue vehicle, two engines, and a ladder
truck to replace the department’s aging inventory. He stated the approximate cost for
the engines is $550,000.00 each; for the heavy rescue $800,000.00 each and $1.2
million for the ladder truck. So, he is going to propose that instead of replacement the
rebuilding of chassis and refurbishing of the fire engines; which would be half the cost of
a new engine and extend the current engine’s life another ten years. The department
can’t afford to purchase more than one vehicle per year. So, he is trying to do what he
can to extend their life cycle usefulness, so that all the vehicles don't need replacement
at the same time. He did receive approval for a capital budget for the purchase of one
vehicle, so he sent an e-mail to the Town of Ithaca Supervisor to get the Town’s
approval to help fund that capital project. He is waiting for the City/Town Contract for fire
services to be closer to completion which he hopes will be sometime before the end of
September. That way the Fire Department might be in a place to have a new engine by
next July. He is trying to defer equipment costs as much as possible, until the City is in
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
6
a better financial position. If the City’s debt service gets lowered it helps increase or
maintain the general operational budget, which is needed.
Fire/Police Report:
Mr. David Cornelius provided the following monthly report for the Board:
“Dear Board Members:
Fire Police Training was held on 7/21/ 2015. The topic was “Healthy Eating and Life
Styles”.
The Fire Police Unit was activated on Sunday August 2, 2015 at around 2230 hours for
a tree down on wires at the intersection of Elm Street and Floral Avenue. Bill Gilligan,
Jack Gould, Rich Wilbur, Jack Bordoni and Dave Cornelius responded. Plywood
barricades were delivered at about 0130 hours. New York State Electric & Gas crews
were able to take over the scene at about 0200 hours, and the Fire Police members
were able to return home.
The Fire Police Unit was activated on 8/10/2015 at around 1630 hours for a wire down
across Route 89 at the City line. They tried to close down Taughannock Blvd. at W.
Buffalo St. and only allow cars headed to Cass Park to proceed. Extremely heavy traffic
required them to ask for assistance from the Ithaca Police Department (IPD). IPD
stopped all cars turning onto Route 89. The Fire/Police unit cleared the scene at 1830
hours. Jack Gould, Jack Bordoni, Rob Longo and Dave Cornelius responded.
I understand, that after the Executive Session at the 7/14/2015 meeting, the Board of
Fire Commissioners discussed the issue of a vehicle for the Fire/Police Unit. I am sorry
this discussion took place without a representative of the Fire/Police Unit present --
other than Chair Gilligan. A self-appointed committee, of Jack Gould, Jim Rogers and
Dave Cornelius, has been working to put together a proposal, to present, first to
Company #9 and then if their approval was granted, to the Fire Chief and Board, for a
Fire/Police Unit vehicle.
At the 8/5/2015 meeting of Company #9, the President suggested that we try to firm up
pricing for the vehicle. A phone call to Bangs Ambulance pushed ahead the schedule
much faster than planned. The committee was considering the pros and cons of
acquiring a box van type vehicle that could be used to carry specialized gear to make
the job of the Fire/Police safer and more efficient. This is not a new concept for the Fire
Department. The Fire Department currently has three separate boats for use under
different conditions, a special box van type vehicle to transport specialized rope rescue
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
7
and enclosed space rescue equipment, and a heavy rescue vehicle for extrication and
stabilization is still in use. They also have primary use of a County hazardous materials
response vehicle.
The Fire Police Unit is generally made up of people over the age of 50 and some over
the age of 70. When called, the Fire/Police members are often on scene for an hour or
more after the engine that requested their help has left the scene. Fire/Police members
are on their feet in zero degree weather and 90 degree weather, standing for long
periods of time. As the members get older, it gets harder to continue preforming at the
top of their game. Storing some of their signs and barricades at Central Fire station
means they have to come and manually move them to another vehicle to transport to a
scene. This not only takes extra physical effort but is time consuming.
The Fire Police members currently respond to calls in their private vehicles. They often
use their private vehicles to block lanes of traffic. They currently carry about 12 flares, 5
collapsible cones, a STOP/SLOW hand held sign, reflective clothing, a helmet, a roll of
scene tape and a flash light and or traffic wand. They also have 4 pink folding traffic
signs, and 2 each “Emergency Scene Ahead” and “Be Prepared to Stop” signs that are
stored at Central Station. The signs are stored in PVC Pipe containers and the heavy
steel bases are stored next to the signs. Someone must stop at Central Station to load
these signs in a vehicle. When I picked them up for the Newfield flooding call in June, I
found that they just barely fit in my Toyota van.
Proposed New Fire Police Vehicle:
Tim Bangs may be willing to donate one of his used ambulances to Company #9’s
Fire/Police unit or sell it to them for trade-in value. These vehicles are Ford 350 diesels
with lighting and 1,000 watt inverters. Mr. Bangs is working with his accountant to see
what is best for his corporation. The fire police would use this vehicle for better scene
safety and to transport:
Road barricades
Flares
50 traffic cones
Emergency road signs
Scene lighting
Scene tape
Generators
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
8
The Fire/Police members cannot carry the necessary number of traffic cones, in their
private vehicles, to properly detour traffic at an emergency scene. We are currently
using our personal vehicles to block roads, which put their vehicles at risk.
Jim Rogers, Jack Gould and I asked Company #9’s members to support this venture
and allow Tim Bangs to donate this vehicle to Company #9 or to purchase it, then equip
it and provide the insurance and maintenance on it. They would also be looking for a
central location to park the vehicle.
Mr. Cornelius called the NYS Comptroller’s Legal office and the gentleman that called
me back said he saw no reason that 2% money could not be used for this purpose. The
2% Guide Book also states that a Fire Company could give money back to their
municipality for a specific use. This might allow the Fire Department to cover the
vehicle with City Insurance and pay for the maintenance costs. Company #9 could
reimburse the City for costs associated with the purchase, maintenance, insurance,
registration, and equipping of the vehicle. He did suggest that the Fire/Police unit might
not have authorization to operate the vehicle for Ithaca Fire Department business
without getting the okay from the Fire Chief, Board of Fire Commissioners and the City
Attorney. They would need assurance that there is nothing in the City of Ithaca Charter
that would prevent the proposed use and payment back to the City of the associated
costs. Fire/Police members see no difference with using this vehicle rather than using
their own personal vehicles.
Minimal Additional Equipment:
2 Ryobi 2,200 Watt Gasoline generators: $599.00 each $1,198.00
2 – High Intensity Green 24 – LED Twin Tripod Work Light: $113.03 each 226.06
50 – 28” Orange Traffic Cones: (10 ctns of 5: $75.00 each) 750.00
50 cones is the recommended number, per DOT, to change one lane of traffic.
8 – 8’ Plasticade A-Frame Barricade Kit, 2 legs with 2 I-Beam Boards- $115.00 920.00
4 – Road Closed signs for barricades: 24”X24” diamond grade $71.95 ea. 287.80
(“My Parking Sign” website)
2 – Rolls Scene tape 3” X 1000’ $6.99 each: 14.98
4 – Pink – Road Closed Ahead with stands $242.99 each: 971.96
2 – Cases of 30 minute flares @ $87.95 each 175.90
Estimated Total Cost of added equipment: $5,742 64
Purchase price of vehicle: (Limit of purchase expense) $-0- to $10,000.00
Insurance cost per year: $ 2,000.00 est.
(Best way would be through the City’s Insurance Agency)
(Need VIN #, weight, etc. to determine actual cost.)
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
9
Maintenance and fuel cost per year: $ 1,200.00 est.
Registration per year: (Register as a commercial vehicle) $ 300.00 est.
Respectfully submitted:
Dave Cornelius”
Mr. Cornelius stated that in retrospect regarding the call on August 10th, in the future he
would suggest closing Route 89 at the Hangar Theatre instead of at Glenwood Pines
Road. There were 7-10 games at Cass Park that evening, a performance at the Hangar
Theatre, and Dragon Boat Rowing practice. That way, the people that would be most
inconvenienced would be the ones going elsewhere beyond the Hangar Theatre.
Parents picking kids up from the Cass Park day camp, and participants in the other
noted activities would not have been as inconvenienced and upset with the members of
the Fire/Police unit for the detour. The Fire/Police members encountered a lot of very
upset motorists as a result of closing Route 89 too far up the road.
Mr. Cornelius noted the members of the Fire/Police unit are interested in having a
vehicle that could be used to pick up the required safety equipment that would be easily
accessible by them, and provide better safety and protection for the Fire/Police
members at emergency scenes. He also felt that since it would appear that 2% money
could be used towards the expense of such a vehicle that it might make it easier for a
decision to be made about whether or not to purchasing one.
Chief Parsons responded that the additional information provided above by the
Fire/Police members does not change his original thought about the proposal. The
Ithaca Fire Department has five vehicles already that are not being used as much as
they could be. He feels that if the Fire/Police unit wanted to use a Fire Department
vehicle and it is available it would be fine. He noted that, so far, they have not made that
request to him.
As far as the Fire Department having multiple boats available, and more than what is
needed, he would like to get rid of one or two to downsize. The Fire Department has a
lot of various pieces of equipment, and even if they are not used, they still need to be
paid for. He is not sure what would be different for the Fire/Police unit having their own
vehicle or utilizing one of the extra vehicles that the Fire Department owns. Again, the
Fire/Police members have not approached him to ask for use of one of the Fire
Department vehicles to deliver necessary equipment to emergency scenes.
Mr. Jack Gould, member of the Fire/Police Unit responded that the Fire/Police unit
requires more equipment to do their job than before. So, even if they had use of a Fire
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
10
Department vehicle, it would require a lot of time to pick up it up, load it, and get it to the
scene. They would prefer that the necessary equipment be kept in an enclosed vehicle
at one location that is handy to retrieve by any member of the Fire/Police, and go to the
scene to make it as easy as possible for them.
Chair Gilligan asked what Tim Bangs’ timeframe was for getting back to the Fire/Police
unit regarding the cost of the used ambulance; or, whether they might donate it to the
unit.
Mr. Cornelius responded that he should know by the middle of August. The $10,000 is
an estimate of what the Fire/Police unit felt they could spend, realistically, from their
budget, and also purchase the necessary additional equipment. Also, knowing that 2%
money could be used for such a vehicle and equipment; or, given to the City to
reimburse it for costs was a major plus for them pursuing this option.
Mr. Gould questioned how it would change the Fire Department’s budget if the
Fire/Police unit could reimburse it fully for any costs by using the 2% money if the City
were to add the vehicle to its fleet and have it covered with insurance and provide for
maintenance costs. He also whether, since it’s been stated that the fire department has
extra vehicles that it is not using, the surplus Chevy Tahoe vehicle could be sold to the
Fire/Police Unit? Mr. Cornelius is concerned that if the Fire/Police reimbursed the City
for vehicle expenses that sometimes the money doesn’t always go to the appropriate
department.
Chief Parsons responded that the “donated money” for vehicle expenses would be
shown as revenue for the Fire Department with an expense to offset it in the Fire
Department’s budget. He also noted that this is a lot of money to put towards a vehicle;
the Fire Department has enough vehicles, the Department of Public Works has
vehicles, and he is really struggling with adding another vehicle to the City’s fleet to
maintain. Would Company #9 pay for a replacement motor, or, how would it take care
of that type of expense within its budget. There is nothing free, and the City always
ends up maintaining the equipment or vehicles.
Chief Parsons stated that if the City can figure out a way to meet the needs of the
Fire/Police unit with the vehicles and resources it already has, then he would support
the request. He is not completely closed off to the proposed idea, but he is not
convinced this is the only avenue that could be pursued and suggested that other
options be considered. He will think about the request though.
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
11
Mr. Cornelius asked if there would be any issues if the company bought, insured, and
maintained the vehicle within its own budget with taking it to scenes?
Chief Parsons responded that his concern is with maintaining another vehicle, someone
will have to drive it somewhere and pick it up so there will always be a problem of
placement/storage, and where it is accessible to the members who need it. He feels the
best location would be at the Department of Public Works on Pier Road.
Mr. Cornelius responded that when he approached the DPW about the possibility of
storing the vehicle there, he was told him they didn’t have room.
Chief Parsons responded that he would do some research and speak with the
Superintendent of Public Works. There is not just a need for the Fire/Police unit to have
a place to store a vehicle, because the fire department and police department also need
an area to store vehicles. He also feels that there should be a better way to get
barricades and road closed signs to scenes and have them accessible as needed by
members of the Fire/Police Unit. He also recommended amber lights for the vehicle
rather than blue.
Mr. Cornelius thanked Chief Parsons and the Board for listening to the Fire/Police unit’s
request, and taking the time to discuss it today with them.
Old Business:
A. Volunteer Recruitment Items/Issues:
Chair Gilligan reported that there are currently two applications on file with two more
expected for the fire/police unit, which have not been received yet. He did reach out
last week to one of the individuals who has had previous training and been involved with
another fire department, but has not heard back. There is a student from Ithaca College
that has applied; also with volunteer experience with another fire company out of the
area. He presumes they would keep their active status with their home department and
then become affiliated with Company #9.
Chair Gilligan stated that he sent a copy of the proposed “Protocols for Becoming a
Volunteer Fire Fighter” to members of Company #9 in order to receive members’
feedback.
Chief Parsons reported that the fire department’s training division is working on a check
list of what is needed to become an active fire fighter; in addition, to the routine training
requirements in the hopes of creating a better plan in the future as a recruitment tool.
Board of Fire Commissioner Meeting Minutes August 11, 2015
12
There will also be a list of the skill set requirements that volunteers need training and
evaluation on prior to going on active duty status.
New Business:
Chair Gilligan reported that the City Chamberlain has received both the New York State
and Town of Ithaca 2% checks, and will be doing the calculations soon. He is hoping to
have that information for the September meeting so the Board could act on the
distribution of the funds to the department, Company #9, and the Fire/Police Unit.
Adjournment:
On a motion the meeting adjourned at 1705 hours.
__________________________ ___________________________
Sarah L. Myers, William Gilligan, Chair
Information Management Specialist
City of Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners
Report to Common Council for First Half of 2015
This report, for the first half of 2015, supplements the Board of Fire Commissioners minutes
posted on the City of Ithaca Website (go to Government, Boards & Committees, Board of Fire
Commissioners, View Available Minutes).
As of July 14, 2015, the Fire Department operational staffing totaled 64 positions: 1 Chief, 1
Deputy Chief (per diem), 6 Assistant Chiefs, 8 Lieutenants, 47 Firefighters, and 1 Administrative
Coordinator. There were no vacant positions for the first time in recent years. Two Firefighters
have given notice of upcoming retirements; Joseph Bargher will retire in August, and Martin
Gessini will retire in September. Chief Parsons received approval to fill these positions, and job
offers have been made to Griselda Velado and Matt Hobbs, both to have started on Monday,
July 20, 2015, and begin recruit firefighter training at the NYS Academy of Fire Science on July
25, 2015.
Recognition for B Shift for Outstanding Response to fire involving two buildings at 402‐404‐
406 Stewart Avenue. A brief ceremony was held on June 9, 2015 to recognize their
outstanding response to the April 13 and 14 fire at two buildings in the 400 block of Stewart
Avenue, including the historically (and socially) significant Chapter House building.
Chief Parsons reported that a consultant, Kingsbury Architects, has been hired to review a
developer’s proposal to purchase Station 9.
The Board continues to review and discuss changes in the City Charter relating to the role and
responsibilities of the Board of Fire Commissioners. The Board anticipates working with the
Council’s Administration Committee on this issue.
The Resource Recovery/False Alarm Policy is currently on hold following preliminary review
with the City Attorney.
There is no new action to report on the County Fire‐Disaster – EMS Board at this time.
The Training Center Facility Project is still under consideration. No construction has been
authorized due to the issue of the facility being located on land designated as City Park Land.
The Board remains concerned about the organizational impact and impact on the Community
served by the Ithaca Fire Department if there is significant change in the current City‐Town Fire
Service Contract.
There has been a Board Vacancy since January of 2014, and Commissioner Ellsworth has
announced his intention to retire from the Board. As of this date, ALL of the Commissioners’
terms have expired.
Respectfully Submitted,
Robert Sparks, Vice Chairman
Board of Fire Commissioners
August 5, 2015
Board of Fire Commissioners
Report to Ithaca Town Board
August 10, 2015
The following is a summary of the Board of Fire Commissioners quarterly report to the Ithaca
Town Board for the second quarter of 2015.
Included with this report are:
The Fire Chief’s Report given at the July 14, 2015 BFC meeting. This includes the Fire
Marshal’s Report & Fire Prevention Bureau activity.
The department call activity reports for January 1- June 30, 2015. Total calls 2,516 (total
through 6-30-14 was 2,472).
The financial operations summary through June 30, 2015.
Fire Department Operational Staffing (June 30, 2015).
As of June 30, 2015 the active Fire Fighting staffing totaled 63 (uniform staffing- 1
Chief, 6 Assistant Chiefs, 8 lieutenants, & 47 Fire Fighters plus 1 Deputy Chief on per
diem. In addition there is 1 Administrative Coordinator for a total of 64 personnel. This
is the first time in recent years that the department has been nearly fully staffed.
There are 2 retirements occurring in the next few months (Aug 9th & Sept. 21st).
Replacements for these two positions were hired in July, to allow them to receive
required training at the NYS Fire Academy in Montour Falls beginning on July 25, 2015.
2015 Fire Department Budget - The Department operating budget for 2015 is approximately
20,000 lower than the 2014 budget. Total department expenditures (excludes benefits) for the
second quarter are 45% (2,786,434) of the total program budgeted amounts.
2016 Budget – is currently in process. An initial plan (zero percent increase) due Aug.1.
SCBA Equipment – The department was awarded a Federal grant of $413,000 to replace its 15
year old SCBA equipment. There is a 10% local match requirement for this award. Bids will be
requested for this equipment. It is expected that the new equipment will be delivered later in the
fall.
Wildland FireFighting Skid – A $24,000 award was received from the Triad Foundation to
replace the department’s current skid. A purchase order was issued for this equipment.
Station 9 (Collegetown) - City is contracting with Kingsbury Architects to provide a feasibility
study on relocating the Collegetown Fire station to another location on East Hill.
Board of Fire Commissioners
The BFC meeting agendas/minutes (dating back to October 1987) are posted on the City
Website. The link is: https://lfweb.tompkinsco.org/WebLink8/DocView.aspx?id=393135
At its June 9th meeting the Board recognized and issued certificates of commendation to the
members of B-Shift for their role in the Chapter House fire. Under the command of Asst. Chief
Mike Schnurle, they were the initial responders to the scene. They conducted a search of the
structures and their initial attack on the fire prevented its spread to adjacent properties while
awaiting the arrival of other units. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Board of Fire Commissioners
Report to Ithaca Town Board
August 10, 2015
There are currently two openings on the Board of Fire Commissioners. A city position has been
vacant since January of 2014. One of the town designated positions is also open as of June 30,
2015. Commissioner Ellsworth has agreed to continue to serve for a period of time to allow for
his replacement by another town recommended individual.
As noted in correspondence to the Mayor and the Common Council liaison to the BFC, given the
Board’s role in overseeing the operation of the department and the effort to increase the effective
use of volunteer’s in the department it would strengthen the Board if the individuals appointed
had experience/knowledge/skills in one or more of the following areas – human
resources/workforce/volunteer recruitment/ working with volunteers/ organizational uses of
social media/website development/organizational development/Marketing/previous experience
with the fire service. A priority for both positions would be to seek individuals with the
aforementioned skills, who would also enhance the diversity of the Board and reflect the
community served by the fire department.
The time commitment for a board member is approximately 1-3 hours per month. The Board
meets monthly on the second Tuesday of the month at 4 pm at Central Fire Station.
Volunteer Program Development
There are currently 17 active members of Volunteer Company No. 9 who serve the department.
There are two pending applications and a few additional applications that have been sent to
interested individuals.
The draft volunteer handbook will be reviewed and revised in 2015. An effort is underway for a
more active recruitment campaign to begin in 2015.
Other Items & Items in progress:
1 Upgraded software in 2015 for the 911 system, may allow changes in the dispatch
protocols used for dispatching the fire department to EMS calls. The upgrade is also
expected to enhance emergency communication capability between agencies.
2 Charter Review- the BFC is not actively pursuing changes to the charter at this time.
3 Resource recovery/False Alarm Policy – Currently on hold following preliminary review
with the City Attorney.
4 County Fire-Disaster – EMS Advisory Board– no new action on this issue.
5 Training Center Facility Project –no construction has been authorized due to the training
site being located on land designated as City Park land.
6 City-Town Fire Service Contract - The Board of Fire Commissioners remains concerned
about the impact on the Community served by the Ithaca Fire Department if there is a
significant change in the current agreement between the City and the Town.
Respectfully Submitted,
Bill Gilligan, Chair, Board of Fire Commissioners
MEMORANDUM
To: Board of Fire Commissioners
From: Tom Parsons, Fire Chief
Date: August 11th, 2015
Re: Fire Chief’s Monthly Report to the Board of Fire Commissioners
ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
Administration
1) Career Personnel Report
PERSONNEL STAFFING LEVELS
1 Chief
1 Deputy Chief (per diem)
6 Assistant Chiefs
8 Lieutenants
49 Fire Fighters
65 Uniform Personnel
1 Administrative Coordinator
Total employees as of July 31st, 2015 – 66
a) Vacancies
None
b) Retirements:
Firefighter Joseph Bargher retired on August 9th, 2015. Firefighter Martin
Gessini has given notice of his intent to retire on September 21 st, 2015
c) Hiring/Promotions
Page 2 of 5 - Fire Chief’s Monthly Report August 11th, 2015
I was approved to fill t wo firefighter positions in anticipation of Firefighter
Bargher, and Firefighter Gessini Retirements. Griselda Velado was hired on
July 20th, 2015, and Richard Cacciotti was hired on July 25 th, 2015. They
both began recruit firefighter training at the NYS Academy of Fire Science on
July 25th, 2015.
2) Budget Report
a) 2015 Budget: Budget Summary – see accompanying report
b) 2016 Budget Preparations: On June 30th, 2015; the Mayor distributed his annual
memo to department heads with guidelines in the development of each
department’s 2016 budget.
The budget information supplied by department heads is used by the Mayor with
developing their budget that is submitted to Common Council in October. In his
memo, Mayor Myrick requested department heads submit a budget that reflects a
zero percent change in operating costs which include personnel, equipment,
administrative and program costs. The reason for the zero percent change is
because the tax cap for the City of Ithaca in 2016 will be 0.7% above the 2015
budget.
I have provided the Mayor a budget proposal that meets his The budget proposal
keeps staffing at the current. The administrative and program costs have been
adjusted keep the department’s budget the same as 2015.
3) County Communications and 911 Programs:
a) No Update: Tompkins County is in the process of installing interoperable
communications equipment, which is designed to provide radio communications
across county borders. This permits fire and law enforcement agencies from other
areas to communicate with emergency responders in Tompkins County.
b) No Update: Tompkins County has purchased new Emergency Management
Software that will provide better coordination of resource requests and incident
management during an area-wide disaster. The City of Ithaca, as well as other
municipalities, will manage their incident(s) locally and at the same time be
coordinated with Tompkins County and our neighboring towns and villages.
4) Grants and Donations
a) No Updates: On April 23rd, 2015, I was notified that the City of Ithaca is
receiving a grant to fund the replacement of our 15-year-old Self Contained
Breathing Apparatus. The grant award was for $413,000, with the City required
Page 3 of 5 - Fire Chief’s Monthly Report August 11th, 2015
to provide a 10% match. We expect to be going out to bid for the equipment in
August or September, with anticipated delivery later in the year.
b) No Updates: On Thursday, May 7th, 2015, I was notified by the Triad Foundation
that we will be receiving a grant for $24,000. The money will be used to replace
the department’s firefighting skid unit that is used for wildland firefighting, and
for fighting fires in remote areas which are hard to reach with a fire department
pumper. A purchase order has been issued for the equipment.
5) Collegetown Fire Station
a) The City of Ithaca finalized a contract with Kingsbury Architects for them to
provide a study on relocating the Collegetown Fire Station to another location on
East Hill. The study will look into the costs for site development and construction
of a new fire station. The study will also include a facilities assessment of the
Collegetown Fire Station, which will identify repairs that will be needed over the
next 20 years if the City decides to keep the current building. The results of the
study are expected to be returned to the City by the end of next month.
LIFE SAFETY DIVISION
Fire Prevention Bureau
1) Code Enforcement Division: The following is a list of March Activities -
Complaints Received: 26
Referred to the City Building Division 16
Referred to the Town of Ithaca 3
Investigated by the Fire Prevention Bureau 7
Inspections: 65
City Fire Safety & Property Maintenance 50
Town Fire Safety & Property Maintenance 0
City - Sprinkler Inspections 6
City - Alternative Fire Protection Systems 0
City - Fire Alarm Inspection 9
City - Standpipe Flow Test 0
City – Fire Pump Flow Test 0
Permits or Certificates: 22
Page 4 of 5 - Fire Chief’s Monthly Report August 11th, 2015
Operating Permit – Assembly Occupancy 3
Operating Permit – Hazardous Occupancy 0
Operating Permit – Lumber Yard 0
Operating Permit – Elevator 0
Operating Permit – Fireworks 1
Certificate of Compliance - Occupancy 10
Certificate of Compliance - Fire Alarm 6
Certificate of Compliance - Fire Sprinkler 2
Certificate of Compliance - Fire Pump 0
Certificate of Compliance – Fire Standpipe 0
Certificate of Compliance - Alternative Suppression 0
2) Fire Investigation Unit:
There were no fire investigations performed by the Fire Investigation Unit in July.
3) Public Education and Special Events
Public Education Events: 5
Fire Drills Witnessed: 1
Child Safety Seat Inspections: 3
OPERATIONS DIVISION
Response
1) July 2015 Responses - 465 Incidents (see attached charts)
City of Ithaca: 325 Incidents (68.89%)
Fires: 7
Overpressure/Rupture 1
EMS/Rescue: 124
Hazardous Conditions: 12
Service Calls: 13
Good Intent: 59
Alarms/No Fires: 109
Severe Weather: 0
Town of Ithaca: 133 Incidents (28.6%)
Fires: 2
Overpressure/Rupture 0
Page 5 of 5 - Fire Chief’s Monthly Report August 11th, 2015
EMS/Rescue: 78
Hazardous Conditions: 6
Service Calls: 6
Good Intent: 11
Alarms/No Fires: 30
Severe Weather: 0
Mutual Aid: 7 Incidents (1.51%)
Fires: 2
Overpressure/Rupture 0
EMS/Rescue: 3
Hazardous Conditions: 0
Service Calls: 0
Good Intent: 2
Alarms/No Fires: 0
Severe Weather: 0
Simultaneous Incidents: 106 Incidents (23%)
2) Emergency Management : No Report
3) Mutual Aid Calls: Quarterly Report
Support
1) Training
See Attached
2) Training Center
Quarterly Report
3) Apparatus and Facilities
No Report
Volunteer Recruitment and Retention
1) Summaries of Service Hours: Quarterly Report
2) There are currently 17 Active Volunteer Firefighters and Fire Police
3) Requests from Company Members to become active: None