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Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association MINUTES OF MEETING OF DECEMBER 7, 2006 The regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order by President Chris LeClaire at 7 pm at the East Kingston Fire Station. There were 17 member departments represented along with one retired member. Following the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for fallen firefighters, the president introduced Chief Alan Mazur of the East Kingston department for welcoming comments. The minutes of the November meeting were accepted as e-mailed. The treasurer’s report was accepted as read. Under correspondence, the president noted that Chief Walker of Barrington had sent a thank you to the association for cards and well wishes sent his way during his recovery. Committee Reports: START: Chief Comeau reported efforts were underway to close out the 2005 grants. START currently has a cask flow problem and will need approximately $4,000 to cover outstanding bills due by year’s end. LeClaire explained the state was to pay for a training exercise but failed to cover the entire cost. Chief Shute moved, seconded by Chief Gamble, that SCFOA advance the $4,000 as a loan to START. The motion passed unanimously. Comeau urged chiefs to have their START team members check with Tracy regarding the status of their physicals. Fund Raising and Fit Testing: No report. By-Laws: A first reading highlighting proposed changes to the by-laws and constitution was read by Deputy Chief Thayer, committee chairman. Copies of the new by-laws and directory were distributed. Of significance was a change in the requirements for a quorum to 33 percent of the membership versus the current 7 members; changes to the time notice to make amendments to the by-laws and items in the directory section; specifying that dues would annually be set at the October meeting; the dues formula and community assessment matrix would hereafter be a part of the by-laws, and adding sections regarding the new air trailers. A second reading will be forthcoming at the annual meeting in January 2007. Thayer promised more changes to come regarding the air trailers and MIRT. He invited comments via phone or e-mail to him or AC White. State Federation of Mutual Aid and Logo/Web Site: No report. Legislative: LeClaire reported legislation has been filed for a line-of-duty public safety officer benefit to be paid by the state. He mentioned $100,000 was being considered. The State Fireman’s Relief Association is not on board with the proposal, and will be pushing its own death benefit version for $10,000. Air Trailers: No report. MIRT: Deputy Chief Achilles reported MIRT by-laws were ready to be included in the SCFOA by-laws and they are modeled after the START by-laws. He quickly reviewed them and stated the intent was not to have a team respond to a maritime incident, but rather MIRT would create a forum to gather information regarding resources and oversee annual training. The MIRT by-laws will be forwarded to members via e-mail. Incident Management Team: No report. Dues/Assessment Adjustment: LeClaire said the committee was still working on the new dues structure, which would be phased in over a three-year period. He said calculating the equipment depreciation for START was an involved process and he hoped a proposed dues structure would be put forth within a couple of months. White spoke about the real costs of START, saying SCFOA sees only about 65 percent of the total due to grants, and that the true cost may be as much as $140,000 annually. START will continue to actively pursue grant dollars but those funds are drying up so members should expect START dues will increase. Comeau said haz mat team members are required by law to have annual physicals and that currently monies are taken from training to offset the costs of the physicals. He said grant requirements are changing monthly and the problem is compounded daily. He told the meeting he will propose a 10 percent increase in member assessments. LeClaire said START had been awarded $240,000 in grants over the last several years and now only regional grant applications are considered. He reiterated grant monies are drying up. Old Business: None. New Business: Gamble reported the state fire marshal wants to restore the plans review officer position. He urged SCFOA support the effort. LeClaire will speak with Marshal Degnan. Comeau moved to raise the START-member assessment 10 percent to be reflected in the 2007 billing. LeClaire stated efforts were being made to get legislation passed to fund the haz mat teams. Legislators rejected the original $100,000 per team request, saying $250,000 per team was more realistic. The hang-up is where to get the money. Shute said the Massachusetts regional haz mat teams bills for incidents are funneled through the state fire marshals office for collection. Cutter said all six regional state haz mat trucks are set up the same and all six were at the recent incident in Danvers. Shute also said state laws allows communities to bill the responsible party directly. President LeClaire noted that , unlike START, the Mass equipment is owned by the State. The motion passed unanimously. Thayer suggested an air trailer oversight committee be a permanent fixture. Comeau said there was much work to be done regarding who to call and establishing regions for responses. The suggestion was accepted. AC Berkenbush stated it was time to invite local state and federal legislators to the annual meeting. Exeter has invited Senator Maggie Hastings and Representative Carol Shea-Porter and will pay for them. Chief Dave O’Brien stated SCFOA’s approach should emphasize the tri-state region and invite reps from all three states. LeClaire encouraged the Maine and Massachusetts departments to invite one or two legislators. Comeau reported the annual meeting would be held at the Exeter Inn and the Inn had not raised its rates for use of the dining room. He emphasized that if you sign up to attend you will be expected to pay. Call Sue (773-6131) for reservations so the Inn can get a head count. He said Secretary/Treasurer Sullivan was trying to get the Danvers (MA) fire chief as a speaker. O’Brien gave a brief nominating committee report. The committee would like to nominate the current slate of officers, but the by-laws prohibit the president from serving more than two one-year consecutive terms. Vice President Carl Rodigeur has stated he is not interested in the presidency, confirmed by LeClaire. O’Brien moved that Article IV, Section 1 of the by-laws be suspended for the January 2007 annual meeting so the nominating committee can present the current slate of officers for election to another term. Motion passed unanimously. LeClaire thanked the association for its support. The by-laws committee will rewrite the term-limiting section of the by-laws. Good of the Order: NH Chiefs will meet next be at Crotched Mountain Center on Dec. 14. Amesbury Deputy Jon Brickett recently severed a finger in a chain saw accident. The finger has been reattached and he probably will be out for a year He is doing well according to Shute, who has appointed an acting deputy for the interim. Retired Chief Ron O’Keefe said Blake had expressed his thanks for the SCFOA-member turnout at the Blake’s retirement party. O’Keefe also said the Government Center has money to support training. The meeting adjourned at 8:25 pm. Respectfully submitted,
Harry Thayer
SEACOAST CHIEF FIRE
OFFICERS ASSOCIATION The regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order at 7:15pm at the Pease ANG Base Fire Station. There were Ten member departments represented along with One guest and Two retired members. Following the salute to the American flag and a moment of silence for fallen firefighters, President Chief LeClaire introduced Chief Bill Hardekopf of Pease ANG Base FD for a message of welcome. Chief LeClaire then introduced Lt. Colonel Kevin Major of the New Hampshire National Guard and the head of the CST (Civil Support Team) Colonel Major gave an overview of his Twenty Two member team and of the teams objectives. They report directly to the governor and their deployment must be authorized by that office. Local officials have the ability to access the team directly in time of need. They will have a 2 to 3 hour ETA to the seacoast region once activated. The team members do not take command of the incident. They are there to assist the local authorities. The Colonel also offered the resources of the CST to train with the START team and other local agencies Chief LeClaire noted that there will be no difference in START operations given the fact that the state now has a CST in place. The minutes of the October meeting, having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. The report of the treasurer was read and accepted. Harry Thayer asked if there was a better way to invest the SCFOA finances to yield more interest. The treasurer stated that he had looked into that and didn’t get very far with Citizens Bank. M<arty Carrier will be asked to look into it on our behalf. Committee Reports: START: Chief Comeau reported that the 04 grants have been finished up and the bills paid. On the 05 grants, Tracy is still waiting for NIMS certificates from a few of the board members. He will be performing an audit of all the START equipment soon. One team deployment in Newington during October seemed to have a communication problem. Chief Greenleaf detailed the incident that turned out to be minor in nature. By-Laws: No report, but the Secretary has copies of the revised by-laws for all the members. Fund Raiser: Friday June 8th, 2007 has been reserved at Apple Hill in East Kingston Fit Testing. No report Guidelines: No report Legislative: No report. State Federation of Mutual Aid: No report Website: No report. Logo: No report. Air Trailer Placement Committee: Chief Comeau reported that the Seabrook trailer has been moved to Rye and will assume the same area of coverage. A state gas card has been suggested for each of the three trailers to make it easier to refuel them after an incident. This will be looked into. M.I.R.T. A/C Achilles reported that there will be a meeting next week. They did have an organizational meeting with the USCG and the NH Marine Patrol more or less regarding the new Portsmouth fireboat. Some departments have expressed an interest bin marina fire training and pre-planning. Several marine related emergencies in the Portsmouth area were discussed, as the line of communication and coordination did not happen the way it was supposed to. Incident Management Team: A/C Wilking reported on a meeting recently held in Dover. They are looking at advanced training for officers in NMS 300 & 400. No future meetings have been scheduled. Fire Investigation Team: No report Training: Nothing new to report Dues Restructuring: The secretary expressed an opinion that the plan was poorly presented to the October meeting. Old Business: President LeClaire spoke on the grant proposal being submitted on Friday November 3rd for a super pumper system. New business: The President appointed a nominating committee consisting of Chiefs Dave O’Brien, Cutter and Lambert. He also mentioned his recent travels that took him to the FDNY for the 9-11 memorial, Dallas for the IAFC conference and to McLean VA for the IAFC. For the Good of The Order: There will be a retirement dinner honoring Mike Blake of the Durham Fire Department to be held on Saturday November 18th in Durham. For tickets, contact Brendan O’Sullivan at the DFD 603-862-1426 or on line at bosullivan@ci.durham.nh.us. The secretary gave a report on the progress of Chief Rick Walker of Barrington and also Dick White of New Castle who is recovering from heart surgery. He also mentioned several retiring chiefs around the state, one being former SCFOA member and now Merrimack Chief Bill Pepler. A reception for Bill will be held on Thursday November 9th in Merrimack from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. The secretary also mentioned the importance of the 100 Club of New Hampshire and their drive to sign up more members. Their annual meeting is also on November 9th in Bedford. Chief Lambert announced the retirement of Chief Charlie Mauris from his position with the NEAFC as the vendor liaison. They are looking for a replacement for his and it is a paying position. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:16pm. Respectfully submitted, Chief William H. Sullivan (ret) Secretary
SEACOAST CHIEF FIRE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION MINUTES OF MEETING OF OCTOBER 5th, 2006
The regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order at 7:10pm at the Rye Public Safety Building. There were Fourteen member departments represented along with Rev. Angelo Pappas, Chaplain Portsmouth Fire Department, Rockingham County Attorney Jim Reams, Marty Carrier and retired Newburyport Chief John F. Cutter III. Following the salute to the American flag and a moment of silence for fallen firefighters, President Chief LeClaire asked for and received a brief prayer from Rev. Pappas. He then introduced Chief Rich O’Brien of the Rye Fire Department for a message of welcome. Attorney Reams was then introduced and spoke briefly to the meeting on the subject of public safety. The minutes of the June meeting, having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. The report of the treasurer was read and accepted. Under correspondence, a letter from Chief Dower of West Newbury requesting membership in the mutual aid district was read. Motion Cutter-Roediger to accept. So voted. Committee Reports: START: In his absence, a report from Chief Comeau was read by the president. START team leaders participated in a training session at Seabrook Station, 04 homeland grant approved by the state; 05 grant application nearing completion. NIMS certification to Tracy ASAP. 10-10-06 will see an audit of all equipment owned by START. Fund Raiser: The secretary/treasurer gave a detailed report on the fundraiser. Income, expenses and profit. A comparison with the 2005 fundraiser was presented, The weather had a negative effect on this years tournament. Several refunds were made to pre-registered teams. After some discussion, motion Plummer-Achilles to NOT refund registration fees in the case of a future rainout. So voted. Fit Testing. Assistant Chief Cote reported that it is in the process of being scheduled. Guidelines: No report Legislative: Chief Plummer reported on the upcoming legislative session. Any issues, get them to Perry. There are several issues to watch including the retirement system, which is sure to come under attack. He also urged members to support those elected officials that support the fire service. Letters to the editor are the best method of support. By-Laws: D/C Thayer reported on the temporary interim policy that was adopted at the June meeting. He suggested that it be made permanent to keep us in compliance with NIMS. Motion Plummer-Cutter. So voted. Harry also suggested that full sets of vests may be purchased and assigned to the three SCBA trailers. Chief O’Brien asked about the possibility of bulk purchase by the SCFOA. Deputy Landry is looking into this subject. Ladder Testing: Completed for 2006. Good job Chief Lord. State Federation of Mutual Aid: No report Website: No report. Logo: No report. Air Trailer Placement Committee: A/C Peters was not present, but there are problems with the maintenance and oversight of the trailers. There was a great deal of discussion on the matter and Chief Plummer suggested that the system be evaluated. The president will address this issue. M.I.R.T. A/C Achilles gave a report on some upcoming issues and the delivery of the new Portsmouth boat in the near future. Incident Management Team: No report. Fire Investigation Team: No report Training: Nothing new to report Dues Restructuring: The president passed out a budget proposal and proposed member assessments. Marty Carrier spoke on the formula used to arrive at the assessment numbers. After a period of discussion, it was decided to take no action at this meeting. Chief Plummer suggested a three-year phase in period. Several chiefs expressed concerns about the large jump in the annual cost of belonging to the SCFOA and how they would obtain the funding in their respective communities. The president reminded the meeting that homeland grants will probably be reduced in coming years. But should the SCFOA be successful in obtaining grants, it would have a positive effect on the need for local dollars to be raised. Old Business: None New business: North Hampton would like to dispose of the hose coupling machine that is old and tired and rarely used anymore. Motion O’Brien-Achilles to dispose of the hose coupling machine. A/C Achilles mentioned the EMS coordinating board that he sits on representing the chiefs. Any issues that a member has should be forwarded to him I.P.S. will be testing our SCBA trailer air on a quarterly basis. The compressor/cascade system in Hampton is aging and could become costly to maintain in the future. The secretary suggested that it be offered to the host for all these years, the Hampton Fire Department. Motion Achilles-Downie to offer the system to Hampton on 01-01-07. So Voted. Chief Roediger spoke on the radio program as overseen by the state police. A volunteer department could be in line to receive extra radio equipment. However the NHSP has ruled that if a department has ONE full time employee, they are not considered to be a volunteer department. The president will contact Colonel Booth to try to straighten this out. The newly formed civil support team is actively seeking disasters, haz mat incidents and/or drills and exercises to attend. They must have the approval of the governor before responding anywhere in the state. It was suggested by A/C Kory Skalecki that Chief LeClaire get together with Chief Hardekopf (Pease ANG Base FD) and attempt to head off any problems with the team. Kory was asked what was needed for security I.D. for the November 2nd meeting at the new Pease fire station. He needs names and lost four of the SSN for his security police at the gate and we will need a photo ID on that night. Grant proposals must be in by November 3rd and applications from groups such as the SCFOA get a higher priority. A/C Cots suggested a request for a Neptune pumping system that can move up to 10,000 GPM utilizing hydraulically driven pumps. Motion Thayer-Roediger to pursue it. Chief O’Brien spoke of communications problems along the coast and the possibility of a grant request for a repeater on the Breakfast Hill standpipe. Chief LeClaire stated that communications equipment grants were denied in the last round. D/C Benotti suggested voter receivers. Chief Plummer suggested that the SCFOA avoid fixed assets. For the Good of The Order: There will be a retirement dinner honoring Mike Blake of the Durham Fire Department to be held on Saturday November 18th in Durham. For tickets, contact Brendan O’Sullivan at the DFD 603-862-1426 or on line at bosullivan@ci.durham.nh.us. The Barrington Fire Department will be sponsoring a pancake breakfast on Sunday October 8th to benefit Chief Rick Walker who was seriously injured in a recent motor vehicle accident, but is in rehab and on the mend. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:16pm. Respectfully submitted, Chief William H. Sullivan (ret) Secretary
MINUTES OF MEETING OF JUNE 1st, 2006 The regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order by the President Chief LeClaire at 7:21pm at the Memorial Union Building on the UNH Campus at Durham. Fourteen member communities were represented along with the Local Gov Center. Following the salute to the American flag and a moment of silence for fallen firefighters, Chief LeClaire introduced Chief Peter O’Leary of the Durham Fire Department for a message of welcome. The minutes of the May meeting, having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. The report of the treasurer was read and accepted. Committee Reports: START: Assistant Chief Mike Blake reported that Chief Brian Comeau had been appointed as the head of START but he is helping in the transition. President LeClaire stated that even though the appointment had been approved at our level, but it still had to go before the START board of directors for confirmation. Fund Raiser: Chief Greenleaf gave a brief report on sponsor signs. The secretary asked for volunteers for June 9th to act as hole witnesses. Chief Cresta displayed the golf shirt that he is having screened for a give-a-way; C & S is donating balls and IPS is donating golf towels All members are urged to obtain at least one sponsor. That is where the profit is. Fit Testing. No report Guidelines: No report Legislative: Chief Plummer reported on the signing of both the fire safe cigarette bill and Amelia’s law bill by the governor yesterday May 31st. He also asked for input for future legislative issues and that they should be in his hands no later than September. Chief Plummer was given a round of applause for his legislative efforts on behalf of the state’s fire service. By-Laws: Harry Thayer stated that he wanted to approve the changes to the incident command policy, but felt that the by-laws didn’t allow for it at this time. It was mentioned that this was more of a policy or procedure and not a by-law as such. Chief LeClaire recommended changing the by-laws to segregate the actual formal by-laws from operating procedures or standard operating guidelines. Chief Lord had some questions on terminology which will be addressed. It was moved and seconded Lambert/Landry) to approve a temporary interim policy (TIP) in order to make the necessary policy changes to the ICS in order to bring the SCFOA into compliance with NIMS. So voted unanimously. The task force assignments that were distributed last month were brought up. Some members were not happy with their assignments and some have not responded. If any member has new equipment that they want added to the inventory, e-mail Harry. Motion made and seconded (Lambert/Peters) to adopt the task force schedule as published. So voted unanimously. Chief Greenleaf asked about the possibility of group purchasing of vests. The Incident Management Team under the command of Deputy Landry will look into it. Ladder Testing: The testing schedule for 2006 has been published and distributed by Chief Lord. A copy is on file with the secretary State Federation of Mutual Aid: No report as Chief Roediger is at the state fire academy representing the SCFOA and the federation at legislators night. Website: No report. Logo: No report. Air Trailer Placement Committee: Assistant Chief Peters reported that not all members have been trained and we have not yet received the power point program as promised. A couple of minor issues have developed and are being addressed. A/C Blake reported on using the Seabrook trailer for two days during training at Hampton Beach and had many positive things to say about the trailers. M.I.R.T. No report Incident Management Team: No report. Fire Investigation Team: No report Training: Chief Plummer reported on the seminar held today in Dover. He stated that he wanted to get Goldfedder back in the fall and asked the membership for ideas for good programs. The end of October was suggested for the next program provided it does not interfere with deer or moose season. Chief Conti spoke on the plans for training. Only one FF-1 and one FF-2 class will be offered per county. State funding is a problem. In the past, funding supported fire and EMS training but that has been expanded to include the fire marshal’s office and emergency management. More money has to be found. Chief Plummer believes that he may have a source for some donated infrastructure and will report at a later date. Dues Restructuring: Chief LeClaire reported that all the valuation and population figures have been compiled and are in the hands of Marty Carrier. Old Business: None New business: Chief Mercier reported that there is a watchdog group in New Hampshire that have targeted municipal vehicles and are following them and reporting their location and destinations to the various cities and towns. For the Good of the Order: It was mentioned that the Farmington chief is now the full time chief in Pittsfield, but Farmington may be headed toward a full time chief also. Chief Lambert passed out notices of the 2006 New England Fire/Rescue/EMS Conference to be held in Springfield and West Springfield on June 23, 24 and 25. The conference is at the Springfield Sheraton with the exhibits at the Big E across the river in West Springfield. President LeClaire mentioned our next meeting on September 7th, 2006 at Rye if their new station is open by that time and also, the NHAFC June meeting in Bristol on June 8th, North Hampton lobster bake on July 6th and Tilton-Northfield on August 10th. The motion to adjourn was heard at 8:20p Respectfully submitted, Chief William H. Sullivan (ret) Secretary SEACOAST CHIEF FIRE
OFFICERS ASSOCIATION In the absence of President LeClaire who was in Washington DC for the fire service Congressional Caucus, the regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order by Vice President Chief Carl Roediger at 7:25pm at the Brentwood fire station. There were 19 member communities represented. Prior to the meeting, the members present viewed one of the three air trailers recently delivered to the SCFOA along with Brentwood’s new Road Ranger ambulance delivered that day. Following the salute to the American flag and a moment of silence for fallen firefighters, Chief Roediger introduced Chief Kevin Lemoine of the Brentwood Fire Department for a message of welcome. The minutes of the March meeting, having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. The report of the treasurer was read and accepted. There was one piece of correspondence from the Local Government Center that was read. Committee Reports: START: Assistant Chief Mike Blake announced that the 2005 annual report was published and forwarded to the membership by electronic mail. He also spoke on the situation with the Ossipee area mutual aid system that had previously asked for assistance from START should the need arise in their area in the future. The START board has agreed to provide assistance on a paid aid basis. A minimum charge of $1,000.00 initially and time and materials after that. Motion Achilles/Comeau to go along with the START board’s recommendation and that a memorandum of understanding be promulgated and signed by both START and the receiving mutual aid system. So voted unanimously. Fund Raiser: Chief Gamble announced that the South Hampton firefighters will be unable to provide the meal for this year’s golf tournament due to the shortage of help. He stated that he would be willing to do it if he had sufficient help from the members. The hole in one insurance has been paid for and Chief Ralph Cresta has indicated that he (National Wrecker) wishes to pick up that cost as well as providing the golf shirts. He also stated that he needs at least THREE WEEKS LEAD TIME for sizes on the shirts. Chief Sullivan reported that the golf balls have been ordered and Chief Comeau stated that C & S Specialties also wants to give away golf balls. All members are urged to obtain at least one sponsor. That is where the profit is. Fit Testing. No report Guidelines: No report Legislative: No report. Chief Plummer is also in Washington DC. By-Laws: Nothing to report. Ladder Testing: Chief Lord reported that there are 16 agencies plus the NH Fire Academy involved in this years testing. There will be various sites around the area where the testing will take place. State Federation of Mutual Aid: Nothing to report. Website: The golf registration forms are available at the SCFOA web site. Logo: No report. Air Trailer Placement Committee: Assistant Chief Peters reported that there will be “train the trainer” instruction on the proper use of the trailers and then the host communities will receive training from our group as the units are placed. M.I.R.T. Chief Achilles mentioned a meeting held with his committee which also includes Chiefs Cutter, Lipe, Roediger and Berkenbush. They are currently working on developing a mission statement and policies along with identifying the risks along the coast and inland waterways from Kittery to Newburyport. The COTP Portland has expressed an interest in being involved and to what degree has not been decided as of yet. Incident Management Team: No report. Dues Restructuring: Chief Lambert detailed a meeting recently held in North Hampton attempting to come with a formula for a dues structure addressing the SCFOA financial needs while doing away with the existing dues and scba assessments. Old Business: Fire Marshal Giguere reported on a meeting of the fire investigation team held in Durham with 15 representatives present. They have another meeting scheduled for April 13th and plan to conduct training in North Hampton sometime in June. New business: Deputy Skalecki from Pease ANG Base detailed an upcoming MCI exercise to be held at Pease on May 13th. He stated that 21 ambulances will be needed for treatment and transportation assessment. They will be utilizing run cards to call the ambulances. A/C Achilles stated that for departments that do not have an ambulance but do have trained EMTs as first responders, people will be needed for triage and care at the scene of the drill. Chief Sullivan brought up the NH fallen firefighters memorial that is planned for construction at the fire academy and asked if the group wanted to appropriate $100 for the purchase of a memorial brick in the name of the SCFOA. Motion Peters/Giguere to do so and so voted. Chief Roediger reported that the portable radios will be delivered during the Month of May and the word from Concord is that “the departments will be happy with the number of radios received”. Motorola has about 70% of the order for the state. On Monday April 10th, Director Mason will be presenting a program at the North Hampton fire station on the Chief Fire Officer program. For the Good of the Order: Chief Comeau announced that Emergency Vehicles of Maine has closed the doors per order of the bank. He also asked for a good attendance at the NHAFC meeting in Concord on April 13th when Chief LeClaire will take over as president for the coming year. And he also mentioned the New England Association of Fire Chief Conference in West Springfield, June 23, 24 and 25. Chief Gamble reported on the meeting of the New Hampshire Federation of Forest Wardens held recently in Holderness. Chief Achilles reported that a class on IS700 will be “on line” in the near future. Anyone interested in ICS training should contact him for more details. Next meeting in Dover on May 4th The motion to adjourn was heard at 8:10pm Respectfully submitted, Chief William H. Sullivan (ret) Secretary
SEACOAST CHIEF FIRE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION The regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order by President Chief LeClaire at 7:05pm at the Barrington station. There were 18 member communities plus the NH Forest Fire Service, New Hampshire Civil Support Team and the Local Government Center of New Hampshire represented. Following the salute to the American flag, a moment of silence for fallen firefighters and an opening prayer by Father Angelo Pappas, Chaplain for the Portsmouth Fire Department, President LeClaire introduced Chief Rick Walker of the Barrington Fire Department for a message of welcome. The minutes of the February meeting, having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. The report of the treasurer was read and accepted. There was no correspondence to be read. Committee Reports: START: Assistant Chief Mike Blake had no report Fund Raiser: Chief LeClaire announced the hole-in-one insurance had been applied for. Chief Ralph Cresta of National Wrecker & Recovery Company is going to sponsor golf shirts. I.P.S. will also make a donation toward an additional giveaway, possibly towels. Fit Testing. Awaiting prices from venders. Guidelines: No report Legislative: Chief LeClaire reported that the bill involving funding for the state fireman’s association had been sent to committee which kills it for this session. The legislature wants something in place to include coverage for ALL firefighters in the state. Chief Lambert reported on a bill to provide a seat on the state building code committee for the NH Fire Prevention Association. Members of the state senate will be contacted seeking their support. By-Laws: A draft is being worked for the MIRT program. Will be similar to the START by laws. Ladder Testing: Chief Lord reported that there are 12 to 15 agencies involved in this years testing. He is still waiting to hear from a couple of more. State Federation of Mutual Aid: Nothing to report. Website: The golf registration forms are available at the SCFOA web site. Logo: Chief Lombardo stated that the logo is progressing. Air Trailer Placement Committee: Assistant Chief Peters reported on possible annual maintenance costs and some initial costs associated with the trailer placement. At each of the three locations, a shore-tie connection would have to be installed at a $1,200 to $1,500 estimated cost. Discussion was had on the operational policy, the responsibilities of the host departments with regard to trailer maintenance, rapid turnout time when the units were requested, overtime expenses. It was suggested that a “memorandum of understanding” be drafted and signed by the host department and the SCFOA. The subject of a future dues increase was also brought up to encompass the entire service delivery of the association. The future of the compressor/cascade system located in Hampton will be the subject of discussion once the three air trailers are in place. M.I.R.T. No report Incident Management Team: Deputy Landry reported on the initial meeting of the team. He also reported that a total of Ten area fire prevention personnel attended a startup meeting of what could turn out to be a regional fire investigation team. He was going to look into the possibility of obtaining a grant for a trailer for that team. Motion Comeau/Peters to authorize Deputy Landry to pursue that grant. So voted. Old Business: Chief LeClaire reported on the portable radio program. State Police not happy with the response from the state fire service regarding the number of radios requested. It is possible that the program will be re-started and new requests will have to be submitted to Col. Booth’s office. The portable radios can be ordered “intrinsically safe” if the department wants them that way. New business: John Dodge reported that the new Wardens Manual (one per community) has been distributed along with a CD should more copies be needed. He mentioned new rules regarding the denial of permits and spring training sessions that will address the new rules. 1-866-NHFIRES is the new toll free information number for his agency. Ron O’Keefe requested that we send an invoice for $1,480.00 to the Local Government Center so that they can pay their share of the seminar being held by this group on June 1st. Retired Chief Ed Acres spoke to the meeting on his part in the newly formed Civil Support Team, a combined national guard effort on the state level. It is a well trained 22 person team and will be available to public safety agencies across the state once their training is complete and they are certified as a team. The team will have a mobile laboratory and communications unit as well as other specialized equipment for homeland security. The team will be headquartered in Concord and must be out the door within Ninety minutes once mobilized at the direction of the Governor. They should be up and running within the next Six months. For the Good of the Order: Father Pappas outlined the duties of fire service chaplains for incident support at the scene of fires or other disasters. There is a spirituality group formed in New Hampshire and it is important that chaplains be trained and organized. Chief Comeau announced that Firehouse.com will be holding a web broadcast on March 9th at 1500 hours on firefighter line of duty death and injury. The motion to adjourn was heard at 8:16pm Respectfully submitted, Chief William H. Sullivan (ret) Secretary MINUTES OF ANNUAL MEETING JANUARY 5th, 2006 The annual meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order by president Chief LeClaire at 7:10pm at The Inn of Exeter with Forty members and guests representing Twenty member communities as well as the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office and New Hampshire Fire Standards & Training present. Following the salute to the flag and the invocation by Father Pappas, Chaplain of the Portsmouth Fire Department, a buffet dinner was served. Following the meal, at 7:50pm, the business meeting commenced and a message of welcome was heard from Chief Brian Comeau of the Exeter Fire Department. The December 2005 minutes having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. In place of the minutes, the secretary read a report called the “year in review”, a synopsis of high points from the meetings of 2005. The report of the treasurer was read and accepted. The fire marshal, Bill Degnan was introduced and Chief Gamble was asked by the president to detail some of his concerns regarding lack of personnel in the marshal’s office. Marshal Degnan went on in detail as to the lack of plans review people in his office and the backlog of work that his office is faced with. He also said that the only was that action can be taken at this time with regard to the legislature, is to have a rider attached to a bill currently in the hopper. Chief Plummer indicated that this could happen with support of key legislative leaders. In summary it was felt that the commissioner needs to hear from the fire chiefs as to their needs. Chief Rick Mason was introduced and spoke of his activity with the Seacoast Chiefs when he was a Deputy Chief in Portsmouth Nine years ago. He congratulated Chief Carl Roediger for his appointment to the fire standards and training commission representing volunteer departments. For the Massachusetts chiefs present, Chief Mason announced the appointment of a new director training in that state. He also spoke on firefighter certification, accreditation and reciprocity between states. A new roadway has been opened from Airport Road in Concord that leads directly into the fire academy on Sheep Davis Road. Committee Reports: START: A/C Blake reported that the budget is still being prepared. Fund Raiser: Letter from Apple Hill Golf Course was read. Motion Conti/Thayer to have the annual golf tournament at Apple Hill on June 9th, 2006. So voted. Training: No report Website. Chief Plummer is forwarding pertinent legislative information to Chief Lombardo for addition to web site. Legislative: Chief Plummer reported on several bills and had with copies of hearing schedules, various bills including the fire safe cigarette bill and the LGC newsletter. He will be contacting chiefs for support from time to time. Nominating: Chief Lambert reported for the committee. The following slate has been put forth. For President 2006; Chief Chris LeClaire, Portsmouth. For ViceP; Chief Carl Roediger, New Castle. For Secretary-Treasurer, Chief William Sullivan (ret) Hampton. And for director, Assistant Chief Mike Blake, Durham. Motion Thayer/Shute to close nominations. So voted. Motion Wilking/Cutter to instruct the secretary to cast one ballot for the slate. So voted. Old Business: None New Business; Letters from Salisbury and Merrimac requesting membership in the district fire mutual aid system were read. Motion Thayer/Cutter to accept. So voted. Chief Lambert asked Chief Plummer about the position of the NHAFC on the bill that would give a seat on the building codes review board to the NH Fire Prevention Society replacing a position held by a volunteer chief. Chief Lambert emphasized the importance of having a fire service person appointed and not a civilian member of the society. Chief Plummer will contact Doug Patch, the lobbyist for the NHAFC to suggest such an amendment to the bill. For the good of the order; On February 8th, 2006 a leadership seminar is being held at the NH Fire Academy. The portable radios are about to be released from administrative services and there are some questions about how many and what kind each department will end up with. More later. Chief Plummer asked about the air trailers and where they will be located. There are some upcoming issues with the Community Mutual Aid air van in Somersworth. Nothing is cast in stone at this time, but it was felt that they should be housed and operated by full time departments where a quick response would be assured. Chiefs Comeau, Plummer, Blake and Peters were appointed by the president to serve of an “Air Trailer Committee” Chief Lord mentioned ladder testing for 2006. He will send out info looking for what departments are interested. The fire academy wants to be included in the testing. Chief Plummer requested some historical facts to be released with the START budget showing hours of training and activity. Assistant Chief Blake acknowledged. The next meeting will be held in Amesbury on February 2nd. President LeClaire thanked everyone for coming and recognized individuals for their assistance during the past year. The motion to adjourn was heard at 8:36pm Respectfully submitted, William H. Sullivan, Secretary SEACOAST CHIEF FIRE
OFFICERS ASSOCIATION The regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order by President Chief LeClaire at 7:00pm at the West Newbury headquarters station. There were 13 member communities represented along with the New Hampshire Forest Service. Following the salute to the American flag and a moment of silence for fallen firefighters, President LeClaire introduced Chief Rock Dower for a message of welcome. Chief Dower introduced Deputy Chief Scott Burkenbush of the WNFD (they are everywhere) and gave a brief overview of the construction of their new fire station. The minutes of the November meeting, having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. The report of the treasurer was read and accepted. Letters from the City of Newburyport and the Town of Greenland fire departments were received and will be taken up under new business. Committee Reports: START: Acting Chief Mike Blake reported on meetings with Captain Collins of the Portsmouth Fire Department regarding equipment needs and the preparation of financial reports. Fund Raiser: No report Guidelines: No report Legislative: Chief Plummer reported that the list of bills is out for the next session and those of interest to the fire service will be listed on the NHAFC web site. Fire safe cigarette bill is still alive. One of the plans for fire service support is to have various reps and senators contacted by their local fire chiefs to inform them of our concerns and insure that they are familiar with the various pieces of legislation and what it will mean to the fire departments. Perry requested the membership to contact him with questions or ideas. Relating to the situation in Goffstown, the RSAs are going to have to be modified in order to afford the office of fire chief more protection under the state laws. The NH State Fireman’s Association will be looking to the legislature for monies in order to fund a death benefit for their membership. What is going to be recommended, will be the PSOB model rather than have an association distributing finances. The McNamara bill recently signed in Massachusetts by the governor, will be looked at for a model. D/C Thayer asked Chief Plummer what was scheduled for training programs. Nothing at this time, but he is trying to get one scheduled for the spring. By-Laws: Nothing to report Ladder Testing: No report. State Federation of Mutual Aid: Chief Roediger reported that a meeting was held in Ashland on November 30th. The statewide fire mobilization plan was utilized last month for the flooding in the western part of the state and worked extremely well. Other states are looking at New Hampshire’s plan for adoption. Various organizations and departments by-laws and rules need to be updated so that billing for services will be smoother and reimbursement will be assured. The resource and equipment lists at the state fire marshal’s office need to be updated. The radio interoperability grant is set to expire in March of 2006 and they are looking to extend it for the portable radio segment which amounts to $10.5 million to not ready for release yet. There is a satellite 911 PSAP being established in Laconia. During the move from the safety building to the new quarters adjacent to the fire academy, the Laconia PSAP will become the primary answering point for the state 911 system. Once the move is finished, the Laconia facility will be a backup to the Concord center. Website: No report Logo: No report Nominating: Will have a slate of officers to present at the January meeting. Old Business: President LeClaire reported on a meeting with the COTP/USCG regarding MERT. The USCG supports the MERT concept and is interested in having the seacoast fire departments trained and equipped. Chris is looking for members to sit on the MERT study committee. Motion Thayer/Cutter to have the SCFOA pursue the MERT development and training. So voted unanimously. President LeClaire also suggested that the SCFOA consider including the area USCG facilities as members of this organization, such as the PNSY and Pease ANG base. He also reported that the Kingston air trailer concept will remain as their original design called for and that the three units that we are having built will be the design that was approved at the October meeting. The New Hampshire fire marshal will attend and speak at the annual meeting in January. The New Hampshire secretary of state’s office has rejected the SCFOA filing of the required paperwork for non-profit organizations. Deputy Thayer will look into it. New business: Letters from Newburyport and Greenland requesting membership in the Mutual Aid District were read. Motion Thayer/Roediger to accept. So voted unanimously. Chief Comeau reported that the annual meeting will be held on Thursday January 5th at the Exeter Inn. He told of the financial problem that we experienced last year due to the snowstorm. He estimated that the association would incur a $1,000 bill with the members in attendance paying $15 toward the meal and a cash bar. D/C Thayer suggested a $20 contribution by the members; non-refundable. Motion Comeau/Lipe to go with the $20 non-refundable per member for the annual meeting. So voted unanimously. The meeting and the arrangements will be posted on the web site. 1800 hours for the unstructured interaction and 1900 hours for the buffet meal. For the Good of the Order: President LeClaire and Chief Plummer overviewed the situation in Goffstown with the elimination of Chief Carpentino’s position and creating the public safety officer system headed by the local police chief. The NHAFC are actively involved and all chief are advised to watch this situation closely because it can crop up in any community at any time. A letter of support from our association will be provided to the NHAFC on a motion by Lipe/Spencer and unanimously approved. John Dodge spoke on administrative rules changes with regard to fire permits and open burning. Copies were provided to the members present. Chief LeClaire spoke about the Flu drill held in Portsmouth recently. It was a success and the fire service’s organizational and response capability was complimented by some of the politicians present at the exercise. The motion to adjourn was heard at 8:16pm
Respectfully submitted,
MINUTES OF MEETING OF NOVEMBER 3rd, 2005 The regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order by President Chief LeClaire at 7:10pm at the Stratham Fire Department. There were 14 member communities represented. Following the salute to the flag and a moment of silence for fallen firefighters, Chief LeClaire introduced Captain Val Pamboukes of the Portsmouth Fire Department who presented a power point program on the subject of the possibility of establishing a MIRT (Marine Incident Resource & Training) Area on the Seacoast of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Southern Maine thru the auspices of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association. He outlined the MTSA (Marine Transportation Security Act) of 2002 and the responsibilities of local and state agencies in dealing with marine incidents, as well as the involvement of the United States Coast Guard thru the Captain of the Port office in South Portland. More information will be available to the membership at the December meeting. A message of welcome was heard from Chief Bob Law of the Stratham Fire Department. The minutes of the October meeting, having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. The report of the treasurer was read and accepted. Letters from the Towns of Amesbury and Stratham were received and will be taken up under new business Committee Reports: START: No report Fund Raiser: Nothing to report Guidelines: No report Posi-Check: Under old business Legislative: Chief Walker reported that HB 467 has passed and is now law. It allows cities and towns in New Hampshire to change the names of private roads within the community. By-Laws: Nothing to report Ladder Testing: No report. State Federation of Mutual Aid: No report Website: No report Old Business: President LeClaire reported no interest in the purchase of the Posi check computer by any members, so a company has offered to purchase it for $3,000.00. Motion Gamble/Achilles to sell the Posi check to American Fire Equipment Company for the sum of $3,000.00. So voted. President LeClaire stated that the three air/light trailers have been ordered from Industrial Protection Services. Delivery should be within Six months. A loan will not be necessary as funding has been promised from the state upon delivery. Various communities have volunteered housing space for the units, but they have yet to be assigned. Deputy Thayer has contacted the Kingston Fire Department with the idea that they upgrade their trailer unit to mirror the three that the SCFOA is purchasing. The additional cost would be approximately $20,000. Harry will check further, but it was thought that Kingston wanted to stick with the basic trailer due to space limitations. Chief Lord inquired about a possible change in the annual dues and assessments structure as budget preparation is upon us. President LeClaire stated that there would be no changes in 2006. New business: President LeClaire appointed Chiefs Lambert, O’Brien and Lord to the nominating committee. Chief Gamble asked if a letter could be sent to Commissioner Flynn pointing out the need for a codes compliant officer/plans reviewer position to be filled in the office of the State Fire Marshal. Chief Law stated that Stratham utilizes a plans review person when the need arises. Chief Walker agrees with Chief Gamble and the need is there for such a position. The president indicated that he would contact the department of safety and the marshal’s office and make our concerns known. Chief Lambert said that the marshal’s office needs to develop a plan and the state fire service has to get solidly behind the plan and gain legislative support. Until that happens, the money for new positions will probably not be there. Chief Gamble questions the portable radio allotment procedure under the interoperability grant money. If you have been allotted Six portable radios, can you buy more of a cheaper brand? It was stated that the radios were allotted to communities by the number of units and not the value. The portable radio program is still up in the air at the state level. Chief LeClaire read letters from the Towns of Stratham and Amesbury requesting membership in the mutual aid district. Motion Thayer/Lambert to approve both communities for membership. So voted. For the Good of the Order: The secretary mentioned a news program to air that night at 11:00pm regarding hydrant problems in Massachusetts; the re-dedication of Chelsea MA fire headquarters in honor of retired Chief Herb Fothergill, the chief at the time of the 1973 Chelsea conflagration; and the positive news media reports on the first use of the statewide fire mobilization plan to aid the Alstead area at the time of the recent flooding. The motion to adjourn was heard at 8:05pm Respectfully submitted, Chief William H. Sullivan (ret) Secretary
SEACOAST CHIEF FIRE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION The regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order by President Chief LeClaire at 7:30pm at the South Hampton Fire Department. There were 14 member communities represented. Prior to the start of the meeting, the members present inspected a trailer mounted air & light unit from the Tyngsboro Fire Department and built by IPS. Following the salute to the flag and a moment of silence for fallen firefighters, a message of welcome was heard from Chief John Gamble of the South Hampton Fire Department. The minutes of the September meeting, having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. The report of the treasurer was read and accepted. Several items of correspondence were read and placed on file Under committee reports, there was no report from START. Fund Raiser: Nothing to report Guidelines: No report Posi-Check: Under new business Legislative: No much going on at this time By-Laws: Later Ladder Testing: No report. State Federation of Mutual Aid: Chief Roediger mentioned a meeting scheduled for October 19th in Woodstock Website: Site will be updated as necessary Old Business: Chief Wright of Capital Area had planned at attend tonight’s meeting and speak to the radio interoperability program but had to cancel. Chief Lambert did report that the program is on track and that Four manufacturers are being considered for portable radios. A/C Achilles spoke on the MERT program and a meeting with the USCG. He asked what does this group want as far as training and response. What level? If a team is formed, it would be comparable to the START team. Captain Pamboukas of the Portsmouth Fire Department will be asked to attend the November meeting of the SCFOA. New business: Chief Leclaire brought up the air trailer grant and wanted to know where we were going from here with it. There was much discussion on forming a committee, going out to bid, are we required to do so; what to do with the Hampton compressor/cascade system; where will the three units be housed etc. Motion Achilles/Davies to purchase Three (3) air/light trailers similar to the Tyngsboro unit with some equipment modifications, from Industrial Protection Services of Wilmington Massachusetts. So voted with two members opposed. A letter from Florida Power & Light (Seabrook Station) requesting to become a member of the mutual aid district was read. Motion Thayer/Achilles to approve. So voted Chief Leclaire announced a pandemic flu exercise to be held on November 19th. City of Portsmouth will be participating. The issue of community dues and assessments was raised by the president. The by-laws contain a provision for the hiring of a part time business coordinator for Fifteen hours per week and the current dues and assessment system will not support that position. Assessments will have to be increased. The board along with Marty Carrier is looking for a possible solution. Chief Roediger asked about the status of the SCBA assessments. The secretary gave an overview of the funding and the condition of the Hampton compressor/cascade system. D/C Thayer brought up the provision in the existing by-laws that allows all members use of the Hampton system, but not all members pay the annual assessment. Some change may be necessary to the by-laws now that the Posi Check unit is no longer part of the assessment. There being no member interested in the purchase of the Posi Check, motion Achilles/Roediger to authorize the president to offer to the highest bidder within the SCFOA or an outside party, the Posi Check unit where is & as is. Motion carried. For the Good of the Order: Acting Chief Ralph Cresta of Greenland was introduced. D/C Thayer inquired on the status of the donation that was authorized at the previous meeting to be sent to fire service victims of Hurricane Katrina. Chief Plummer is working on it. The motion to adjourn was heard at 8:35pm Respectfully submitted, Chief William H. Sullivan (ret) Secretary SEACOAST CHIEF FIRE
OFFICERS ASSOCIATION The regular monthly meeting of the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Association was called to order by President Chief LeClaire at 7:15pm at the Somersworth Fire Department. There were 13 member communities represented. Following the salute to the flag and a moment of silence for fallen firefighters, a message of welcome was heard from Chief Paul Vallee of the Somersworth Fire Department. The minutes of the June meeting, having been previously forwarded to the membership by electronic mail were not read, but were accepted as published. The report of the treasurer was attached to the Agenda and was also accepted as published. Captain Timothy Collins from Portsmouth was introduced as a guest. Capt. Collins is the START Coordinator. No correspondence had been received. Committee Reports: START: Chief Blake reported that a white paper report is being prepared that outlines the services that START provides for communities. Capt Collins reported that the team would have mask fit testing done in the near future. New air equipment has been received. A class on air monitoring / sampling, originally scheduled for the Team was shifted to Concord. The cost to attend in Concord is prohibitive so |