Heidi L. Clifford

Key discussions included a review of quarterly call data spanning October 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, which showed a total of 259 calls for the quarter and an overall missed call percentage of 18.1%. The Commission agreed to review the effectiveness of the Overnight Stipend position monthly. Recruitment activities planned include an Open House for a new truck, though winter limits current events. Regarding the FEMA Aid to Firefighters Grant, an updated quote of $18,457 was received for a gear extractor, and local purchase is planned for the Washer/Dryer, with efforts underway to secure contractors for equipment space. The development of an Evaluation Tool for the Fire Chief was tabled to the February meeting, as this meeting was a postponed January session. Standard Operating Procedures/Standard Operating Guidelines (SOP/SOG) Sections 1, 1A, 2, 3, 4, and 5 were reviewed and found ready for publication, while Section 15 remains with legal counsel for review. In new business, the EMS Lieutenant position, vacant for six years, was filled effective February 1, 2026.

Key discussion topics for this meeting included a review of the effectiveness of the Overnight stipend program and a detailed review of the daytime stipend program concerning job description, duties, schedule rotation, participants, and effectiveness. The commission also planned to discuss retention and recruitment activities, including planning for an Open House for a new truck, and reviewed the FEMA Aid to Firefighters Grant, noting an updated quote for a gear extractor. Other agenda items involved the development of an Evaluation Tool for the Fire Chief (tabled from the prior meeting) and the review of Standard Operational Guidelines/Standard Operating Guidelines (SOP/SOG) Sections 1, 1A, 2, 3, 4, and 5, which were agreed upon as standard procedures ready for publication. During the January 8th portion of this combined meeting record, it was noted that the EMS Lieutenant position had been filled.

The Council meeting agenda included the Treasurer's Report for December 2025, Fire Commissioners Report topics from November, and the Fire Department Report for December 2025. Key discussions covered the financial status, including detailed fire department expenses and corrections to payroll tax deductions based on IRS confirmation. Fire Commissioners reported on call data analysis, approval of the Overnight Stipend program, and posting the Fire Chief job opening. New business involved updating the Lawncare RFP process due to lack of responses and providing an update on FOIA requests which have been forwarded to the Borough Attorney. Discussions also addressed strategic planning takeaways concerning the Fire Chief job description, marketing efforts, and downtown vacancies. The Council resolved to table sections 12 and 13 of the Fire Department SOP/SOG for further review and approved the Overnight Stipend Program Policy with revisions. Personnel matters were discussed in Executive Session, followed by a motion confirming the Borough Council's authority regarding Fire Chief demotions.

The Council meeting agenda included the Treasurer's Report for November 2025 and reports from the Fire Commissioners and Fire Department for November 2025. Discussions covered liaison reports, including updates on the Town of Killingly issuing an RFP for Legal Services and ongoing issues like Well Water Contamination. Old Business focused on the Real Custom Training Strategic Planning, specifically key takeaways regarding the Fire Chief hiring process, marketing efforts (Facebook followers), enhancing the relationship with the Killingly Economic Development Office, and Borough Administrative Office staffing. The Council reviewed Sections 12 & 13 of the Fire Department's SOP/SOG, but ultimately rescinded the approval and tabled them to refer back to the Fire Commission for necessary revisions related to the Overnight Stipend Program. New Business involved addressing a request from the Vision Committee for the Council to attend their February meeting, and referring the Overnight Stipend Program back to the Fire Commission for further refinement regarding member responsibilities and discipline. The Council entered an Executive Session to discuss a personnel matter and possible action relating to member sanctions.

The council discussed various topics, including a presentation on the IntraFi fund offered by Centreville Bank, which provides fully insured funds up to $250 million for municipalities. They also discussed the Treasurer's Report for October 2025, which included income, property taxes, pilot revenue, and expenses for the Fire Department and General Government. The Fire Commissioners Report covered topics discussed at their September meeting, including the proposed Overnight Stipend Program and a FEMA grant for building renovations. The Fire Department Report for October was reviewed, highlighting the department's responses to various calls and the condition of vehicles and the building. The council also reviewed the Strategic Planning Report and discussed the Fire Departments SOP/SOG. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters and possible member sanctions.