Board of Fire Commission
Meeting Minutes
April 9, 2007
Present: Chairman David Simko, Dr. Richard Brown, Dean Michelson
Absent: Matthew Walton
Others Present: Fire Chief Chuck Stickler, Assistant Chief Steve Palmer, Deputy Chief Greg Voelker, Captain Marty Voelker, Fire Marshal Phil Visintainer, Hunt Voelker, Derek Johnson (Town Council)
Chairman David Simko called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. at Company #1 on Barton Hill Road.
Approval of Minutes:
A motion was made by Dean Michelson and seconded by Dr. Brown to accept the minutes of the March regular meeting as presented. Vote 3-0 in favor.
• Communications: Chairman Simko stated that the communications will be discussed during the Executive Session.
• Public Remarks: Town Council member Derek Johnson mentioned that on April 25th there will be a workshop on the proposed water system. Four different proposals have been submitted and this would be a good time and opportunity for the department to be present and to share their thoughts on the fire suppression opportunities which a water system should be able to provide..
• Fire Marshal Phil Visintainer’s Report: The Fire Marshal’s report is attached and made part of these minutes.
• Fire Chief Chuck Stickler’s Report: The Chief’s report is attached and made part of these minutes.
Old Business:
• Vehicle Maintenance – Dean Michelson mentioned that he has done some research and would like to be part of helping to fix Tanker #3. He has looked into a used cab and chasse and continues his search for other parts. Tanker #3 is 27 years old and the tank is in good condition. The truck needs brake work and the manifold is cracked. We will have to decide what the best way to go is.
• Old Rescue Truck – Chairman Simko stated that the truck is still at the sewer plant. A list of specifications has been forwarded to the Town Manager so the ad can be put out. Pictures have already been provided.
• 2007-2008 Budget – Chairman Simko announced that the additional $10,600 the Fire Department requested has been put into a sinking fund in the Capital Budget and the Vehicle Maintenance line will remain the same. Chairman Simko explained that if the monies are not used they will be rolled to the next year.
• Building Walk-thru – Chairman Simko stated that the walk-thru went well and the following were discussed:
Company #1 - Re-point Chimney - Replace Doors (outside) - Re-point steps - Repair wall
Company #2 - Replace 3 windows - Install gutter - Thermostatically controlled heater for generator area
Company #3 - Replace doors (outside) - Repair sidewalk - Fix oil tank - Dehumidifier to control humidity issue - The exterior of Company #1 was also discussed and at this time Frank Grzyb is looking into having an engineering firm come in to give suggestions. Chairman Simko stated another walk-thru will be done in the fall to assist with the next year’s budget preparations.
• Capital Budget Requests – Chairman Simko stated that the Chief’s vehicle has been taken out and the pick-up truck request has been cut to $20,000 and the department was told to buy used. Chief Stickler mentioned that during a meeting he did bring up that the $20,000 would not be enough to purchase and outfit a truck properly. Deputy Chief Voelker suggested making a presentation to the Finance Committee to help them understand the need for the vehicle.
Chairman Simko tabled the discussion until the next meeting so more research could be gathered to go back to the Finance Committee. The findings and prices will be presented to the Town Council Liaison.
• Awards Program/Tax Abatement –Chairman Simko reported that the list is complete. He is finishing entering social security numbers.
Chairman Simko will email Marie Durkin to have her put together a definition of how the abatement gets applied. When obtained it will be posted for the membership to review.
• FEMA Grant Process- Chairman Simko stated that he is entering the information into the grant application that Rich Klotzbier is giving him. This information includes specifications as well as the pricing. The grant has to be submitted by May 4th.
• Fire Commissioner Seat - Chairman Simko confirmed that appointments are on the Council Meeting Agenda for tomorrow evening.
• Pump House - Deputy Chief Voelker asked that the Commissioners write a letter to the Council suggesting that the fire department assist with testing the engine and pumps before the warranty expires. Fire Marshal Visintainer stated that hopefully the warranties can be extended. Chairman Simko suggested that the Commissioners write a letter to the companies involved asking for their assistance with this matter. Fire Marshal Visintainer thanked the fire department for their offer of assistance and stated that he will check with Frank Grzyb to see if he has heard anything from the DEP. No work can be done on the water supply (pond) until DEP gives their OK.
New Business:
• Ambulance Donation – Chairman Simko stated that he has received an email from Rich Lintz regarding the retired ambulance and the forms which haven’t been signed. Chairman Simko did contact Alan Bergren and asked why the forms have not been signed. Alan stated that they will be signed this week. Chief Stickler mentioned that it will cost $1,500 to re-sticker the vehicle and $600 for paint. Chairman Simko will let the department know as soon as the papers have been processed.
• Physicals - Chief Stickler stated that purchase orders have been written for the members who will be getting physicals before July 1st.
• Approval of Purchases - Chief Stickler asked for the approval to purchase the following items:
Description |
Amount |
Acct. Number |
Vendor |
Hose Testing |
$4,100.00 |
01220221-5330 |
To Be Determined |
Pump Testing |
$900.00 |
01220221-5330 |
To Be Determined |
Leaf Blower |
$425.00 |
01220221- |
Midstate Tractor |
A motion was made by Dr. Brown and seconded by Dean Michelson to approve the purchases as presented. Vote 3-0 in favor.
• Vehicle Maintenance – Chief Stickler asked the Commissioners if the following vehicles could be sent for repair: Engine 1-12 to repair missing shackle strap and spring, estimated cost between $600 and $3,500. Tanker #3 for a brake inspection and repair. Chairman Simko and the Commissioners stated that if the repairs need to be done, schedule the repairs.
A motion was made by Dr. Brown and seconded by Dean Michelson to adjourn the regular meeting to an executive session. Regular meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m. Vote 3-0 all in favor.
The executive session ended at 9:15 p.m. A motion was made by Dr. Brown and seconded by Dean Michelson to adjourn the Executive session. Vote 3-0 all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Kristin A. Olzacki Recording Secretary
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