Greater Naples Fire Rescue District

This document outlines the goals and objectives for the Greater Naples Fire Rescue District for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. The strategic direction focuses on protecting life and property through emergency response and education, guided by a vision to increase response effectiveness, enhance professionalism and operational efficiencies, and ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Key strategic areas include Operations (Fire Suppression, ALS/BLS, All Hazards Rescue, Training), Fire & Life Safety (Community Risk Reduction, Code Enforcement, Public Education/Community Outreach, Investigations), and Support Services (Human Resources, Information Technology, Fleet Maintenance, Facilities Maintenance, Finance).

The Board meeting included the presentation of the Treasurer's Report and a review of the Fire Chief's report, which covered district operations, a home elevation project update, and upcoming community events. Business items included updates on the status of Fire Engine procurement, authorization to negotiate changes to the Station 74 agreement, and approval of contracts for the station 71 roof replacement and apparatus bay doors replacement. Additionally, the Board approved a casual employee agreement for the Wellness Coordinator and amendments to the employee handbook regarding discipline records and vacation payouts. Public input addressed the collection of unpaid HOA fines and internal processes related to truck procurement.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, following the deletion of two AIW agreements. Key discussions included the consolidation of fuel and lubricant expenditure line items in the Treasurer's Report. The Fire Chief's Report noted plans for a capital projects workshop in February or March 2026 and a fire plan review meeting in February 2026. New business involved the approval of the Dept. of Commerce Grant Match Agreement and the purchase of training props and a trailer, with funding split between the Impact Fee Fund and the Capital Fund. The Board also approved Policy #305 regarding Investments and the engagement of new district legal services. During commissioner comments, discussions touched upon collaboration with North Collier Fire on health insurance and clarification on required officer positions (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer) based on statute.

This document details the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Final Budget for the Greater Naples Fire Rescue District, outlining financial requirements and allocations. Key budget considerations include anticipating grant funding, implementing a 2% Cost of Living Adjustment for all employees, performing a job task analysis and salary study, adding new positions such as a Business Intelligence Analyst and Facilities Maintenance Technician, and investing in significant equipment upgrades including laptops/iPads, brush trucks, flow testing and investigation equipment, cardiac monitors, EMS simulation software, and airpacks. The budget also initiates capital plan redevelopment and prioritization, all aimed at supporting operational efficiency, enhancing staff capabilities, and ensuring the provision of essential services.

The meeting included several key actions following the agenda approval. The Treasurer's Report was approved, and the Fire Chief presented a report noting an upcoming Board Workshop scheduled for February 11, 2026, to focus on contract opening, plan review, and capital projects. In New Business, the Board conducted Commissioner Officer Elections, resulting in Commissioner Cherney assuming the Chair position. Agreements were approved, including the amended Fleet Service Agreement with the City of Marco Island and the Department of Financial Services MARC Grant Agreement. The Board addressed the unsuccessful formal bid process for seven fire engines and directed staff to provide a formal recommendation at the next meeting. The revised Social Media Policy #604 was adopted, and interlocal agreements (MM63 and Station 74 Lease Agreement) were approved. Commissioner Cherney raised concerns regarding the financial impact of proposed changes to leave time in the draft Administrative Handbook before the meeting was adjourned.