Jack Leonard

The Foreign Fire Tax Committee reviewed correspondence regarding a firefighter's resignation effective August 20, 2017. The Treasurer's Report for August 2017 was presented, detailing current account balances. Old business included multiple motions regarding expenditures for station furnishings, decon/cancer prevention equipment, tool replacement, and window blinds. A purchase request for 32 Gore Particulate Blocking Hoods was approved up to $3500.00. New business involved approving purchase requests for a leaf blower and pots and pans for station 2, as well as annual FF subscriptions for Active911 accounts. Research on high rise packs was noted, and the committee agreed to address the vacancy left by Firefighter Fry's resignation.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence in honor of a retired Firefighter and former District Trustee, followed by the introduction of a new Fire Department member. Key discussions included the acceptance of the Treasurer's Report, which detailed fund balances as of July 31, 2019, across various accounts. The Board also addressed personnel matters, including the denial of a grievance filed by Local 1692 after a closed session discussion. Old Business centered on the replacement of Unit 1452, resulting in a deferral of purchase pending the Fire Chief's return and the formation of a working committee. New Business included the approval of the KME preconstruction letter for a new fire apparatus, subject to conditions regarding pricing and manual inclusion. Authorization was granted for Captain Wills to expend up to $800.00 each for Fire Prevention Week materials and the annual Open House. The Board approved the replacement of lifting bags using general funds after discussing the application of memorial funds. A decision on applying a $5,000.00 donation in honor of Captain Ringering was deferred pending an itemized cost breakdown from the Chief.

The meeting addressed pending personnel matters, for which the Chief reported none requiring Board attention. The discussion then focused on eligibility testing and scheduling, with the Chief reporting that testing is in process and a timeline was distributed; notice of eligibility testing is scheduled for publication on or about May 1, 2016. Regarding promotional testing, it was noted that Firefighter Elder withdrew from the process scheduled for April 30, 2016. No rules amendments were considered before the adjournment.

Key discussions included recognizing Firefighter Scott Haegle for over 20 years of service upon his resignation and swearing in three probationary paid on call Firefighters: Byrd, Dawdy, and Halliday. The Treasurer's Report detailed financial statements for various funds as of October 31, 2016, reflecting receipts and disbursements for October. The Board authorized the payment of bills as they come due. The Fire Chief's Report covered the failure and replacement recommendation for the icemaker at Station No. 1, commendations for firefighters, the status of apparatus repairs indicating the repair budget would be exceeded, and ongoing efforts regarding apparatus refurbishment quotes and grant utilization for turnout gear. The purchase of a replacement icemaker and the use of excess FEMA funds for vehicle stabilization struts were approved. The Board also authorized the issuance of Longevity and Points Payments checks. It was noted that a hearing on the 2016 tax levies would occur on December 5, 2016.

Key discussions during the meeting included the recognition of a Paid-On-Call Firefighter for his service upon his departure. The annual insurance review was presented, covering various coverages, with an expectation that annual premiums would remain stable. The Treasurer presented detailed financial reports for July 2017, which were subsequently accepted. The Board authorized the payment of bills in the usual course of business. Personnel matters included noting an on-duty injury to the Assistant Chief and an off-duty injury to another Firefighter, leading to a shift adjustment. The Chief reviewed pending grant applications and advised that the trial involving the Hi Way House was rescheduled for October 2017. The Board discussed the proposal to expand the MABAS Box Alarm Response to include all of Alton but consensus was reached to maintain the current arrangement due to personnel stress from recent injuries. A purchase request submitted by the Fire Chief was unanimously approved. Under old business, the frame rail issue for Unit 1412 was discussed, resulting in a request for legal counsel to contact Spartan Motors regarding repair options instead of full replacement. The Board also authorized the attorney to publish a solicitation notice for repairs to the bay floor at Station No. 1. Finally, the Board decided to utilize an anonymous survey to solicit opinions from fire department members.