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<br /> <br /> Increase in hardware and hand tools to replace aging exercise equipment at both engine <br />houses, a line item that was added to ensure the crews safety as they keep fit for their <br />duties; <br /> <br /> Increase in vehicles and equipment to upgrade their SCBA (self-contained breathing <br />apparatus); <br /> <br /> Increase with the renewal of the Cadet Program; and <br /> <br /> Increase to purchase a GATOR which is like a glorified golf cart with a stretcher on it to <br />allow easier access in crowds during special events. <br /> <br />Chief Long provided a performance summary for 2011 and 2012 actuals, 2013 estimated and <br />2014 projected. <br /> <br />Mr. Crow asked about the fluctuations of Rescue and EMS calls which went from 985 in 2011, <br />815 in 2012 and 474 in 2013. He wondered about the big drop in 2013. Mr. Crow noted <br />another fluctuation in calls was, Other Situations: 2011 actual calls were 12, 2012 actual calls <br />were 12 and 2013 estimated at 383 calls. <br /> <br />Mr. Walker said he would get back to Council with an explanation. He said he would like to <br />point out the addition of two additional positions to the fire department: an Assistant Fire Chief <br />to assist with some of the administrative duties and an additional fire fighter. <br /> <br />Mr. Glickert asked why an Assistant Fire Chief was needed. Mr. Walker said the position would <br />handle some of the administrative duties. Mr. Glickert asked why an Assistant Fire Chief was <br />needed to handle administrative duties. <br /> <br />Chief Long noted in the past a Fire Marshal position was also eliminated. That person had <br />responsibility was for code enforcement. The Assistant Fire Chief would take over some of <br />those duties. The Chief said the department had been negligent in its inspections. He stated <br />the department should be doing pre-planning, and working with the building division should <br />inspect all the places of business and assembly places in the City, to be sure they meet life- <br />safety requirements. The last few years the department has done only a pre-plan. <br /> <br />Mr. Walker noted that approximately five years ago when the City’s fiscal situation had a <br />significant shift, all departments were directed to make cuts across the board rather than <br />strategic cuts. <br /> <br />Mr. Glickert referenced the cadet program asking, when the investment was made, what <br />assurance was there that this person would stay with the fire department. <br /> <br />Chief Long stated the cadet would sign a contract and would be obligated to stay with the City <br />for a number of years or that person would be required to pay back a portion of the money the <br />City spent in training. <br /> <br />Mr. Crow asked about using the word negligent and thought it was a strong term to use in a <br />public forum. <br /> <br />2 <br /> <br /> <br />