City of Whiting

The meeting addressed the status of the newly received ambulance, which is awaiting state EMS certification, title transfer, and radio installation, estimated to be ready in three to four weeks. It was noted that two personnel successfully completed the Fire Academy and received awards. Discussion on the previous year's performance highlighted 1,274 calls responded to in 2025, with a commitment to continuous improvement in planning, training, and execution. Capital Acquisitions planned for 2026 include acquiring a fully outfitted Polaris UTV for events and purchasing a Lifepak 35 to equip the main ambulance with advanced monitoring capabilities, ensuring both ambulances have this equipment.

The meeting included the acceptance of the previous meeting's minutes. Old business addressed the pending paperwork for applicant Josh Warn regarding his approval status with PERF after completing medical and psychological exams. New business covered ongoing remodeling efforts, including new flooring in offices and dorms, and the department's plan to conduct performance evaluations focused on quality control and improvement tools. Furthermore, an update was provided on fleet upgrades: a new ambulance is expected soon, the old ambulance will become the new water rescue vehicle, the current water rescue vehicle will be repurposed as the Chief's vehicle, and the current Chief's vehicle will be used to tow the boat for water rescue calls. There was no public discussion.

The meeting addressed several operational items. Old business included confirmation that Josh Warren's medical documentation was submitted to PERF, with an expected outcome soon. The delivery date for the new ambulance was confirmed as December 30th. Under new business, the successful completion of fire academy training for Pedro Valerio and Ruban Silvas was announced, with both set to transition to full-time status and subsequently enroll in EMT classes in February. The success of the smoke detector installation program, which reached 275 units installed, was highlighted. The department reflected on 2025 as a challenging year marked by promotions and growth, expressing anticipation for further development in 2026.

The meeting addressed several ongoing and new business items. Specific actions included noting that trees across from 1501 and 1512 Center Street were trimmed, and a tree removal request for 1646 Central Avenue was added to the 2026 waitlist. Concerns were raised regarding unfinished trimming and removal work by Howard's Tree Service, and the handling of a pear tree replacement at 1616 Center Street. Replacement of three memorial trees in the Park, a tree at Memorial Park, and a tree on Schrage Avenue is planned for the Spring due to low nursery stock. A discussion regarding a dead tree on Walgreen's property with the Mayor was also planned. A public commenter raised concerns about newly planted trees on 117th Street dying due to lack of watering and requested that the report of completion from the Delta Institute with NRPSI be included in the minutes and that minutes be posted promptly after approval.

Key discussions included the status of the Tree City USA application, which is due by December 31st, with a board member assigned to complete it. Tree maintenance plans were set, including trimming two trees in front of the Police Department next year and adding a dying tree at 1738 Cleveland Avenue to the removal list for 2026. Arbor Day was scheduled for May 8, 2026.