Laserfiche WebLink
equipment. Chief Dunphy acknowledged that the Fire Department is actively engaged in <br />succession planning for the upcoming year. This is in anticipation of the expected departure of <br />numerous firefighters and Chief Dunphy's own retirement. <br />Budget-wise, Chief Dunphy stated notable increases in several key areas. He mentioned that <br />travel and transportation expenses have seen an uptick, rebounding from the abrupt Covid- <br />related cutoff in prior years and returning to pre-Covid levels of training and travel. Chief <br />Dunphy highlighted a substantial increase in professional services, attributing it to essential <br />outsourced services. The most significant increase, he pointed out, is observed in contractual <br />services, driven by escalating costs across various subcategories, including ladder testing, pump <br />testing, and equipment testing. In the materials and supplies category, Chief Dunphy stated <br />increased expenditures, particularly for fuel costs (diesel and gas) and offsite vehicle repairs. On <br />a strategic note, he emphasized a deliberate reduction in capital production costs, reflecting a <br />thoughtful approach to budget allocation and resource management. <br />Chief Dunphy concluded his presentation by explaining that the Fire Department is proactively <br />addressing staffing, safety, and community needs while navigating budget adjustments. He <br />mentioned that the overall approach reflects a commitment to prudent resource management and <br />maintaining a balance between operational requirements and fiscal responsibility. <br />Councilman Shachner asked a question regarding the Fire Department’s succession plan and <br />current staff levels in terms of age and experience. In response, Fire Chief Dunphy stated that the <br />Fire Department has a good number of young firefighters, but this varies depending on the year. <br />He also acknowledged that the Fire Department has many senior personnel as well. <br />Councilman Bullock raised inquiries during the meeting, addressing safety improvements at Fire <br />Station #2, the rate of EMS hospitalization locations, current fuel costs, and potential future <br />position vacancies. In response, Fire Chief Dunphy conveyed that a primary focus at Station 2 is <br />on enhancing safety. Efforts have been made to reduce the presence of soot, odors, and cancer- <br />causing agents emitted from fire vehicles. Regarding statistics on emergency room (ER) <br />transports, Chief Dunphy cautioned that the numbers may be somewhat misleading. On the topic <br />of electric vehicle (EV) implementation, Chief Dunphy stated that consultations with emergency <br />services consultants have taken place. The recommended approach is to wait for the <br />infrastructure to develop. However, he suggested exploring the adoption of EVs for staff and <br />other smaller vehicles, mentioning that the Neighborhood Paramedic vehicle is a hybrid. Chief <br />Dunphy assured Council that the Fire Department has succession plans in place for any future <br />vacancies. He explained that a standing list is consistently maintained, and there is a pool of <br />individuals willing to wait for opportunities while being readily available when needed. He <br />highlighted the ongoing administration of entrance exams and captains' tests conducted every <br />November to ensure a continuous pipeline of qualified candidates. <br />*** <br />4 <br /> <br />