HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009 Resource Recovery Introduction Memo.doc
MEMORANDUM
To: Neighborhood and Public Safety Committee
From: Brian H. Wilbur, Fire Chief
Re: IFD Resource Recovery Proposal
Date: 31 MAR 09
The Ithaca Board of Fire Commissioners have been working to re‐introduce a
proposal that would attempt to recover some of the costs incurred when the Fire
Department is called to rescue or recover someone from one of the gorges, or from
some other predicament. This Resource Recovery Proposal has been to Common
Council previously, and in similar form over the years. The economic situation we
face is one of the catalysts for this renewed effort.
This proposal would have the Common Council pass legislation to authorize the
Ithaca Fire Department to assess the extraordinary costs incurred when on‐duty
personnel are insufficient in numbers to manage both the rescue/recovery
operation and maintain coverage for the rest of the community. It is not unusual for
a gorge rescue call, as one example, to incur extraordinary costs in the $3,000 to
$8,000 range. Examples of costs incurred include, but are not limited to: overtime,
apparatus costs, equipment costs, and replacement of consumable supplies.
Attached is a draft of a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) list which may help
explain how this program might work. Also, it may help to know the Fire
Department Hazardous Materials Unit currently recovers costs associated with any
spill or release of hazardous materials. This recovery is authorized by federal and
local statutes.
We look forward to informing you about this program, and addressing any
questions or concerns you may have.
Cc: R. Romanowski