GILFORD BOARD OF SELECTMEN’S MEETING
FIRE DEPARTMENT BUDGET REVIEW
SEPTEMBER 14, 2006
3:00 P.M.
The Board of Selectmen convened in a special session on Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 3:00 p.m. at the Gilford Town Hall, 47 Cherry Valley Road, Gilford, NH. Selectmen present were Chairman Dennis Doten, Alice H. Boucher and Connie Grant. Also present were Town Administrator Evans E. Juris, Assistant Town Administrator Debra Shackett, Administrative Secretary Sandra J. Bailey, and Fire Chief James Hayes.
The Selectmen recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Fire Department Budget Review
Fire Chief James Hayes proceeded to review his proposed budget. Beginning with salary items, he stated that he had calculated a COLA increase of 3%, so that amount will need to be increased. He also stated that the salary line is increased to allow for coverage when two lieutenants and two firefighters are attending the Aircraft Rescue Academy. Selectman Boucher inquired if that amount were reduced to a total of two, would the proposed budget amount be similar to the Town Administrator’s budget? Chief Hayes replied yes.
The next item covered by Chief Hayes was call pay. He provided an explanation of the number of call firefighters and how they are utilized on fire and medical calls. Chairman Doten inquired about controlling the number of firefighters who respond to a call. Chief Hayes replied that this is difficult since they do not know availability. He also briefly explained how Plymouth manages their “platoon” system with call firefighters.
Selectman Boucher inquired about the number of personnel in other towns. Chief Hayes provided an explanation of the surrounding towns, pointing out that each town is set up differently in their use of full-time and call firefighters. He stated that after further review, he can reduce the amount in the call pay line to $66,248. This will enable the department to have 23 members in place by the end of 2007.
Town Administrator Juris inquired about personnel used on medical calls. Chief Hayes provided an explanation of the different types of medical calls and the personnel required.
The next portion of the budget covered included forestry equipment. Chief Hayes asked the Board to reconsider these cuts to enable the department to be able to purchase protective shirts, gloves, headlamps and 300 feet of hose. He also described problems with the existing forestry truck.
Selectman Boucher then inquired about the proposed Fire Inspector position. Chief Hayes explained that Dave Poole will be retiring and as a result, someone will be needed to assume his duties in this area. Discussion ensued on whether this position would be an employee or contracted service. Also discussed was the possibility of having this person cover for the Building Inspector when he is on vacation, etc.
Under Capital Expenses, Chief Hayes explained the need for a new thermal imaging camera. He further stated that Mike Balcom is currently researching the three different types of cameras, prior to replacement. Chief Hayes stated that a thermal imaging camera is used a great deal, resulting in property savings. To date, it has not been used for rescue.
Chief Hayes then reviewed the issue of the purchase of a new fire truck. He provided the Board with some financing options, emphasizing that a lease/purchase option has less financial impact. Extensive discussion ensued between Board members and Chief Hayes regarding the various types of fire trucks, advantages and disadvantages of each type, and long term financial implications if another fire vehicle is needed.
As far as the matter of mutual aid is concerned, Chief Hayes stated that each Town is responsible for providing their own base level of fire protection. He also explained that insurance ratings within the Town would be affected if the fleet were to be reduced.
Prior to voting on recommendations, the Board briefly reviewed some of the issues previously discussed, with input from the Assistant Town Administrator and Town Administrator.
Alice Boucher moved to recommend $1,072,670 for the Fire Department budget, which is the $1,072,348 Administration budget amount plus $322 for holiday pay. Connie Grant seconded. Motion carried.
More discussion ensued on a multi-functional fire truck. Chief Hayes advised the Board that he will provide them with more information.
Administrative Budget Review
As a follow-up from the September 11, 2006 meeting, Alice Boucher moved to reduce the Selectmen’s stipend line to $7,500.00, for a total Administrative budget of $445,708.00. Connie Grant seconded. Motion carried.
With no further business before the Board, the Board of Selectmen’s September 14, 2006 meeting was adjourned at 4:38 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Sandra J. Bailey
Administrative Secretary
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