04-04-2012 FSTF MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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6. DISCUSSION TOPICS 6.I.A.City Code 6.I.B. Elk River (Fire and) Ambulance Service Discussion was held on the topic of organization governance and oversight, specifically as it relates to the city code. Chief Streich provided a historical perspective of the fire service and how it has evolved from a few citizens banding together to solve a common problem to a more defined department of the city in the 21" century. Chief Cunningham presented slides and information pertaining to the department's current governance and the conflicting/confusing references to multiple governing documents (city code,by-laws, city policy, etc.). Discussion was held on the topic of governance in addition to the relationship between the [City of Elk River] Fire Department and the private, non-profit Elk River Fire and Ambulance Service. Presently, the Fire Department and the ambulance service share a common set of by-laws as well as a similar name. Chief Cunningham informed the Task Force that the Elk River Fire and Ambulance Service is currently working to create their own set of by-laws, separating themselves operationally from the fire department. Mr. Former suggested that the city establish an ordinance that clearly establishes the fire depatunent, similar to other departments. The Elk River Fire and Ambulance Service could remain a separate entity, and the city would provide for management and oversight of the Fire Department. Chief Cunningham suggested that the entire section be reviewed and revised accordingly as part of the Task Force. The Task Force discussed the timing of making recommended changes. The Task Force agreed that the best approach is to bring forth the final strategic plan in its entirety, including any recommended changes and revisions. This will provide an opportunity to educate the Council as well as other stakeholders,including fire deparnnent employees. Discussion was held on the relationship between the Fire Deparnnent,Relief Association and the Fire and Ambulance Service. Tim Simon explained the purpose of the Relief Association's General Fund. The Elk River Fire and Ambulance Service makes regular contributions to the Relief Association which accounts for the balance of the General Fund. This fund is used to fund activities such as the dance, spring banquet and other social functions. Chief Cunningham informed the Task Force that the Relief Association is working to create an operating budget to better control the expenses of the General Fund of the Relief Association. 6.2. Command Structure and Organization Chief Cunningham presented an analysis of the organization's current command structure,including the level of engagement of officers and the time commitment/responsibilities of the leadership positions. Also highlighted was Page 2