Luke Rhode

The board reviewed financial reports, including general checking, payroll, and reserve accounts. Invoices were processed, including monthly operational costs, retirement payments, and insurance premiums for new ambulances. Resolutions were passed regarding the intent to finance emergency medical services and authorization for bond sale requests to fund ambulance services. The board reviewed an audit draft and discussed fund transfers to cover costs for fire gear replacement following a vehicle accident and for building maintenance projects. Planning for the 2026/2027 budget was initiated. Additionally, reports were provided regarding building and grounds updates, fire marshal activities, training statistics, and the status of a new fire engine.

The board reviewed and accepted the financial report and monthly invoices. The 24/25 final audit was presented and approved, noting increases in operating costs and compensated absences, alongside a decrease in tax assessments. The board selected Eclipse Bank for a new tax-exempt loan after evaluating multiple competitive bids. Additionally, the department moved to surplus a 2003 Seagrave engine to be sold through a broker. Committee reports covered status updates on building maintenance, fire marshal activities, and the arrival of a new truck. Significant policy changes regarding employee health insurance and HSA contributions were approved, while updates to the uniform policy were tabled for attorney review.

Key discussions included the presentation of a service award plaque and the acceptance of the financial report, which totaled over $5.5 million across various accounts. Invoices totaling $100,706.38 for November were approved for payment. Old business involved approving the engagement of Mark Leach as counsel to assist with structuring a tax-exempt loan, particularly concerning financing capital equipment like ambulances. Information was provided regarding a public blessing ceremony for the Baby Box and the near completion of the front office remodel. New business focused on insurance renewals, showing a significant increase in premium costs for building, vehicle, and liability coverage, which was provisionally accepted. The Board also approved HSA contributions for fire personnel and discussed the possibility of different contribution rates for EMS staff. Capital improvements discussed included approving up to $16,000 for a dorm remodel project and planning for the installation of a new fire hydrant near the burn building with assistance from local students. Additionally, the training committee's handbook updates were approved, and information was shared regarding the expected mid to late January delivery of a new truck.

The meeting began with the Chairman calling the Fairdale Fire Department Board of Trustees Meeting to order. Key financial discussions included the acceptance of the Treasurer's report detailing several Republic Bank accounts and the approval of invoices totaling $205,859.53 for payment. Old business centered on the approval to purchase a 1998 100' Quint fire truck from Pennsylvania for $95,000, including transportation, and allocating $150,000 for its refurbishment. The board also addressed a misunderstanding regarding a concrete quote and noted that Eddie Hall withdrew his candidacy for the election committee spot. New business involved authorizing a $150,000 transfer to the payroll account and confirming receipt of Rope Rescue equipment and office furniture. In executive session, personnel decisions were made, including the appointment of Carrie Blevins as Interim Chief effective July 1, 2024, and as the new Chief effective January 1, 2025, and approval to hire a bookkeeper. Committee reports noted a motion to purchase metal packages for the training center for $8,303.27.

The Board of Trustees meeting covered several agenda items, including the election of new officers, confirming the Firefighter Representative, and welcoming a newly appointed board member. Key discussions involved accepting the financial report, approving invoices for the month of June, and providing budget updates, noting that funds for painting the firehouse exterior and replacing the gym bay door were moved to the Reserve account. Capital purchases, including a 2025 Tahoe, were noted. The board approved the installation of a Baby Box. In new business, authorized bank signers were updated. Policy updates included finalizing mandatory work guidelines and incorporating the 48/96 shift trial and revised Bereavement Leave (5 days for FT, 2 days for PT) into the Employee Handbook; a new policy regarding drug/alcohol testing upon accident or reasonable suspicion was also discussed. The board decided to switch incident management software from ESO/Firstdue to ESO for fire protection work, costing approximately $12,000, with EMS functions renewing under ESO in December. Finally, the board approved declaring a surplus red trailer for internal bidding and donating old ballistic gear to a department in need. The formation of a Bylaw Committee was also initiated.