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organizations. Mr. Dittbenner and I have consulted on the direction of the Ambulance <br /> Service and I support their efforts. <br /> Task Force Discussion <br /> The Task Force has had macro-level discussions regarding the relationship between the two <br /> organizations. We have not,however, discussed, and there was no immediate plan to <br /> discuss, the topic of emergency medical services. The focus of the Task Force was limited to <br /> establishing a long-term strategic plan to provide city-financed and directed fire protection <br /> and services. <br /> Following the discussion at the monthly department meeting, specifically the concerns of the <br /> ambulance coordinator and a number of the rank and file firefighters, I may have <br /> prematurely presumed the need to clearly establish the Elk River Fire Department authority <br /> for operations and planning. In hindsight,it may be necessary to consider all of the potential <br /> operational scenarios with regard to the existing fire depaiunent and the Ambulance Service. <br /> We have established a dear consensus thus far that there is a need to improve the city <br /> ordinance regarding operational control of the ERFD. We are currently exploring <br /> organizational structure with which to efficiently and effectively provide fire protection <br /> services. Before going further, I think it is important to take a step back and explore other <br /> options with regard to fire protection and ambulance services, as well as their relationship. I <br /> have added an item to our upcoming agenda to discuss this topic in further detail. Below are <br /> three possible models to consider: <br /> 1. Two separate entities. The city would continue operating the fire department and <br /> providing oversight. Medical transport would remain with the Ambulance Service. <br /> The ERFD would remain a tax-supported function of the city. The Ambulance <br /> Service would remain a separate entity with no oversight or funding from the city. <br /> 2. City assumes responsibility of ambulance service. Combine the fire and ambulance <br /> service into one agency by integrating fire and emergency medical services. <br /> Oversight, administration and financing would be provided by the city. <br /> 3. Fire and Ambulance Service model established. The city delegates the responsibility <br /> for fire services to the existing Elk River Fire and Ambulance Service, or another <br /> recognized agency. The city would relinquish operational and fiscal oversight of fire <br /> services. <br /> The above mentioned options are offered as examples to begin the discussion, as there may <br /> be other options to review as well. To date,we have only considered the first model. The <br /> other two models are offered as potential options to help facilitate discussion regarding Mr. <br /> Dittbenner's and others' concerns with separating the fire and ambulance service. <br /> I have continued to welcome the department,including Mr. Dittbenner,to attend any of the <br /> Task Force meetings. <br /> 2 <br />