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Chief Dunphy reviewed other highlights from 2020 which included: • Statistics on calls for service, which included 6,546 calls to date • Installation of new AEDs for Lakewood Park and Madison Park • Securing grant funding for reimbursements and other expenses • Purchase of new equipment Chief Dunphy noted that firefighters have been able to complete trainings, symposiums and continuing education virtually. He discussed specialized trainings on high rise rescue and vehicle extrication. He added that new cameras and microphones were added at all stations to help with social distancing while meeting and training together. Chief Dunphy stated that 24 structure fires were investigated by the Fire Prevention Bureau this year and two were determined to be intentional. He discussed the additional roles and responsibilities of the Bureau including inspections, code compliance,plan reviews and adaptations due to COVID. In lieu of fire prevention assemblies, the department provided virtual lesson plans in cooperation with Lakewood City Schools. He discussed other public outreach and education conducted by the department. Chief Dunphy discussed the priorities and projects anticipated in 2021 including a major software replacement, addition to Fire Station 42, among others. He also stated that the department is preparing to serve as a vaccine Point of Distribution if called upon by the County. Recognizing the demands of the job this year, Councilmember inquired as to the morale of the department. Chief Dunphy acknowledged that morale has waned at times,particularly following the summer surge but that it is currently high. The Chief acknowledged that it has been tough for firefighters to keep up the 24/7 mask-wearing and social distancing but that it is necessary. The Chief explained that an increase in travel and transportation was budgeted for 2021 in anticipation of getting caught up on trainings and continuing education opportunities. In response to a councilmember question, Chief Dunphy explained that the professional services line item includes work done by outside contractors. There is an increase budgeted for 2021 to install exhaust fume evacuation systems at stations one and three. The Committee, the Chief, and Director Rancatore discussed the use of the COVID Relief Funds to offset salaries and benefits and the impact on the budget. The Committee and the administration discussed the financing of the Fire Station 42 expansion. Councilmember Bullock expressed his support for the project but voiced concerns about using the Lakewood Hospital Fund to pay for this. He stated that he preferred an alternative source be identified so that the City can maintain the Lakewood Hospital Fund for more strategic investments. Mayor George responded that the Lakewood Hospital Fund was identified as the funding source for this project in 2019. She expressed concerns about the City taking on new debt to finance the proj ect. 4