Board of Fire Commission
Meeting Minutes
December 10, 2007
Present: Chairman David Simko, Dr. Richard Brown, Mattie Walton, Richard Dufour and Dean Michelson
Others Present: Fire Chief Chuck Stickler, Deputy Chief Greg Voelker, Hunt Voelker, Marty Voelker.
Chairman David Simko Called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. at Company #1 on Barton Hill Road.
Approval of Minutes:
A motion was made by Dr. Brown and seconded by Dean Michelson to accept the minutes of the November regular meeting minutes as presented. Vote 5-0 in favor.
Communications: Chairman Simko received a letter from the State of Connecticut announcing an upcoming state fire marshal course that will be starting soon.
Public Remarks: Marty Voelker reported that the flag pole is now up at Company #2.
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:
Annual Meeting – Chairman Simko reported that he attended the Annual Department meeting and complimented the department members on their unity. Chairman Simko also passed on the compliments he received on the department for the part they played at Gov. O’Neil’s funeral.
Fire Marshal Deputy Appointment – Chairman Simko spoke with Fire Marshal Visintainer with regard to his request at the last meeting to appoint Rich Klotzbier to Deputy Fire Marshal. After review of state statue the Board of Fire Commissioners is allowed to appoint a Deputy Fire Marshal. If the Town Attorney finds that this is not the case because of a Town Ordinance, the motion voted on by the Commissioners will then become a recommendation from the Board of Fire Commissioners to the Town Manager.
Matthew Walton suggested that if this is to be a paying position it should be opened to all qualified candidates.
Dean Michelson recommended that a panel be put together to interview any candidates that would be interested.
Dr. Brown made a motion to appoint and/or recommend Richard Klotzbier as Deputy Fire Marshal seconded by Richard Dufour. Vote - 2 in favor 2 against 1 abstention.
A discussion followed.
A motion was made by Dr. Brown and seconded by Richard Dufour to recommend and authorize the appointment Rich Klotzbier as Deputy Fire Marshal for an interim period of 4 months. A discussion was held. Vote- 3 in favor 1 opposed 1 abstention.
Building Maintenance – Chairman Simko stated that the building walk-thru with Frank Gryzb will talk place on Thursday. Chairman Simko asked that anyone with concerns about the 3 fire stations let them know.
Grants/Bond Package – Chairman Simko stated that he has not yet contacted Gail Hamm. Matthew Walton suggested that Chairman Simko call or email Gail so the process can be started.
New Business:
Facilities Study – Chairman Simko stated that he doesn’t know what the timeframe for the study is. Chief Stickler stated that this study will be presented to the Town Council. One study has the Barton Hill Station remaining at the current site and the other has it moving to the G & S Service site.
R-1 Issue - Chief Stickler reported on the R-1 issue. If fire personnel are called to a motor vehicle accident or fire incident and offer assistance, they are not covered for liability. The town is looking to get an insurance supplement that will be tacked onto the Police Department policy. Chief Stickler stated that the police chief is in favor of this. Chief Stickler will set up a meeting with Chairman Simko, Chief Reimondo and the Town Attorney to review the options available.
Bylaws – Chairman Simko asked that all Commissioners review the bylaws that have been revised and a discussion will be held at the next meeting. This document has been put out to the membership for suggestions and will be formally presented and reviewed at the next quarterly meeting.
US Smokeless Tobacco Company - Deputy Chief Voelker discussed the US Smokeless Tobacco Company Rangers Program. It is a grant program which we would apply for. The company will award 60 6 wheel drive vehicles (Gators or Rangers). If we are awarded the grant, we would have to provide the skid for the back and a trailer to haul the vehicle. The grant guidelines are very strict. Chairman Simko stated that the grant is similar to the FEMA grants which we have applied for in that the town would be responsible for a percentage of the award. The Finance Director will be notified when the grant is submitted.
A motion was made by Dean Michelson and seconded by Matthew Walton to apply for the US Smokeless Tobacco Polaris Ranger Donation Program. Vote 5-0 all in favor.
A motion was made by Richard Dufour and seconded by Dr. Brown to adjourn the regular meeting at 9:20 p.m. Vote 4-0 all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Kristin A. Olzacki
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