Discuss Fire Department Restructure and Staffing

The current operational structure of the Fire Department divides responsibilities between two positions: the Administrative Captain of Logistics and the Assistant Chief of Operations and Training.  With the continued increase in call volume, which has shown double-digit percentage growth in recent years, the department faces escalating demands across multiple areas. This growth impacts not only operational response but also training requirements at the duty crew level, department-wide, and for individual staff development.

Given the ongoing strain and the evolving needs of the department, it is evident that aligning operational and logistical responsibilities under a single position will create greater efficiency and clarity in leadership roles.

Proposal Overview:
Staff proposes reorganizing the Fire Department staff structure to merge operational and logistical duties under one position, while separating training into its own dedicated role. This restructuring will allow for clearer lines of responsibility, reduce overlap, and improve overall departmental effectiveness.

Key Changes:
Create a Deputy Chief of Operations & Logistics position (eliminating the Administrative Captain of Logistics position) to oversee both operational and logistical duties which will handle the day-to-day operational aspects of firefighting activities, including the strategic deployment of personnel, equipment, and resources during incidents, while also managing the logistics of maintaining and acquiring necessary supplies to support fire operations effectively. 

Create a Deputy Chief of Training position (eliminating the Assistant Chief of Operations and Training position) responsible for coordinating and developing fire service and EMS initial orientation and training, continuing education, staff development, on-duty training, officer development and credentialing of firefighter personnel.

The reassignment of duties will lead to an adjustment in pay rates to reflect the change in responsibilities of both positions. This reorganization not only clarifies roles but also positions the department for continued growth and success.  See the attached adjusted pay rates.

From a staffing perspective, the current Administrative Captain of Logistics, Mr. Jason Sufka, would become the Deputy Chief of Operations & Logistics and the Assistant Chief of Operations and Training (currently vacant) would become the Deputy Chief of Training.  Staff would plan to conduct an internal recruitment for the Deputy Chief of Training, with an external recruitment only conducted if needed.  If approved by consensus this evening, this internal recruitment would be conducted as soon as possible. 

By realigning responsibilities and clarifying the reporting structure, the Fire Department will be better positioned to meet the increasing demands of our growing community while maintaining high standards of service and safety.
 

Up to 20 minutes.

Based on discussion.

Based on discussion.