EVENDALE COUNCIL RECREATION, FIRE AND POLICE COMMITTEE MEETING
December 3, 2013, 5:00 pm
In attendance at the Recreation, Fire and Police Committee, were counsel members, Ranz and Albrinck. Also in attendance were Recreation Director David Nichols, Fire Chief Mike Hauck, and Police Chief Niel Korte. Counsel member Bill Puthoff was absent.
Recreation
Mr. Nichols reported to the committee that the December ordinances will include hiring of part-time employees and the setting rates for 2014.
Mr. Nichols wanted to also comment on the status on the large passenger van. Some residents have expressed concern recently that the van is currently 15 years old and that it does not have the necessary mechanisms to accommodate people in need of a lift. Mr. Nichols confirmed that although it is 15 years old, it only has approximately 30,000 miles and that it is in excellent condition. He further confirmed that it is safe and that it can be adapted, if it is determined that a lift is necessary. It has been very rare that a lift is requested, and in those occurrences, they will rent a van with the lift to accommodate the needs of the individual. The committee agreed that we will simply continue to monitor the situation and make no further recommendation at this time.
Fire Department
Fire Chief Hauck reported that the engine on the 2006 fire engine does not need to be replaced and that it can be repaired for approximately $600. The cost to replace the engine would have been approximately $18,000.
Chief Hauck reported that there is approximately $14,000 in excess from the budget that was not spent this year. He would like to reallocate those funds to purchase a hydraulic cutter to replace a 2002 cutter. The difference would increase the power from 69,000 lbs. to 208,000 lbs. Chief Hauck stated that the old hydraulic cutter is not strong enough to cut through some of the new vehicles. The approximate cost of the hydraulic cutter is $5,000. He also requested that $2000 be reallocated to purchase rescue struts to a place timber that they are currently using, and $2000 to purchase step chalks to stabilize vehicles involved in accidents. The Committee approves and recommends the reallocation of the 2013 capital funds for these purchases.
Chief Hauck also informed the committee that the current radios (Motorola ) , will become obsolete in 2015. Current mobile radios in the vehicles and base stations are already obsolete. These will be necessary capital items in 2015; however, in the meantime, he will be looking for possible Grants to help fund this expense. Between Police and Fire, it is estimated that this cost could be approximately $500,000. The Hamilton County Communication System will have to replace their system in 2015 so at this point, we will wait to see what type of new system will be in place.
Police Department
Chief Korte confirmed that, upon re-evaluation of the salaries for police personnel in surrounding communities, the Sergeant and Lieutenant salaries are in line with their peers and he is no longer requesting an adjustment.
Chief Korte has also requested an additional $5,000 to equip the newer vehicles. The expenditures are necessary due to the equipment specs for the new vehicles are not compatible with the older vehicles.
At 5:45, by motion by Mr. Ranz and seconded by Mr. Albrinck, committee adjourned.
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