Michael Jones

Key discussions during the meeting included welcoming the new Commissioner Ontai. The Fire Chief's report covered morale, welfare, recreation statistics (5 peer support activations in January), current department vacancies (103 total, projected to be 33 after 70 recruits in training), and the FY 2027 budget received from the Department of Budget and Fiscal Services, which includes a $400,000.00 increase for equipment, rising costs, and 22 full-time positions. Fire Operations reported on upcoming training sessions, including Hazmat Blue Card Command refresher and live fire training, and noted that the Belfor 429 helicopter hoist is nearing the end of its lifespan, with a refurbished hoist ordered for June 2026 arrival. Planning and Development reported on the successful accreditation site visit in December 2025, with the final report containing 19 recommendations, and a hearing scheduled for March 10, 2026. Administration Service Bureau detailed facility updates, including shoreline overhead charging system uploads, furniture replacement planning, and ongoing work on the hangar at Kalaeloa and structural guidance at Nu'uanu Fire Station. Tower restoration is underway, projected to complete by the end of July 2026, awarded to MJ Construction for $772,000.00. The Commission also reviewed the status of the Line of Duty Death report for the January 6, 2025 McCully Fire Incident, due by March 18, 2026. During an executive session, the Commission reviewed a confidential complaint regarding improper use of a fire truck and off-duty behavior, approving a response exonerating personnel on truck use and dismissing the off-duty claims due to lack of jurisdiction. The Commission also approved its 2025 annual evaluation for Fire Chief Hao in executive session.

The agenda for the meeting includes receiving the Fire Chief's report covering workforce, facilities, equipment, budget, labor discussions, stakeholder matters, major incidents, and correspondence. The Commission will also review reports on assigned work, including the HFD Budget Review, the Annual Evaluation of the Fire Chief for Calendar Year 2025, the Annual Report of the Fire Commission for Calendar Year 2025, citizen complaints, and governance and rules. Other key discussion points involve updates on the alleged February 14, 2025 sexual assault incident at HFD Headquarters and the January 6, 2025 McCully Fire Incident. A discussion is also scheduled regarding 2025 Honolulu Charter Amendment Proposals that affect the Fire Commission's powers, duties, or functions, specifically Proposal 253.

The Fire Chief's report covered departmental vacancies, noting 101 current vacancies with 31 recruits in training, and outlined future recruit classes scheduled through July 2027, emphasizing a move toward computer-based testing. Promotions were reviewed for Battalion Chiefs, Captains, and Fire Fighter III roles. Discussions ensued regarding the current recruitment and testing process, including physical agility standards and applicant drop-out rates. The Commission also reviewed the fiscal year 2027 operating budget discussions with the Department of Budget and Fiscal Service. New business included an announcement about a fishing tournament honoring a fallen Fire Fighter. Assistant Fire Chief Cabasa reported on the acceptance and assignment of new apparatus, including Quint 31 and several new vehicles. Assistant Chief Yoshida presented on the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer, noting high participation rates and HFD receiving the Gold Helmet Award. Analysis of fireworks permit sales and related incidents for New Year's Eve was reviewed. The Fire Chief presented the 2026 Annual Executive Report, highlighting the Strategic Plan. The Commission approved the Annual Report of the Fire Commission.

The meeting included the recognition of Commissioner Hannemann for his service with a plaque and lei presentation. The Fire Chief's report covered staffing updates, retirements, projected recruit classes, evaluation of safe lifting techniques, installation of new air conditioning systems, and a new agreement empowering the Fire Department for minor facility repairs. Discussions also addressed New Year's Eve preparations, the Eddie Aikau Big Wave event, and a rescue incident. Administrative matters included a joint first responder aviation hangar discussion, an operating budget review, and updates on re-accreditation efforts and transition to a new records management platform. The Commission also reviewed and adopted proposed internal management policies concerning Vice Chairperson election, presentation of testimony, correspondence distribution, meeting decorum (adopting Robert's Rules of Order), and attendance expectations for Commissioners.

The Honolulu Fire Commission meeting included discussions and a presentation on Fire Prevention Week, focusing on the theme of lithium-ion battery safety, and the hazards and safety measures associated with lithium-ion batteries. Incident data related to these batteries was reviewed, and methods for extinguishing electric vehicle fires were shared. The Fire Chief's report covered various challenges, including call volume, community conflict, and significant incidents. The report also touched on peer support programs, after-action reviews, and strategic plan pillars. Updates were provided on apparatuses, technology incorporation, and the department's reaccreditation process. The commission also discussed budget reviews, complaints, the Fire Chief's evaluation, administrative rules, and potential charter amendments.