May 6, 2009

Called to Order: 1900

In Attendance:
Roman, M. Roman, A. Nordlund Maier
Ruster Oates Martin Hester, K.
Sarata Morrissey Teigeler Hutchinson
Proebstle Patterson Leiby Frazee
Beckwith Gorden Roberts

Treasurer’s Report:

Secretary/Treasurer Barnes was not present. Sergeant-at- Arms Roberts reported funds of $9809.85. The Union had charitable donations, pop machine expenses, bargaining class, flowers and FOAM reimbursement. Motion to accept report by Patterson. Seconded by Frazee. Motion passed.

Safety Committee:

Nordlund reported for Boomer. Boomer has supporting documentation supporting NFPA statue on turnout gear lifespan. There are ongoing discussions with 402. There is nothing in writing or concrete policy at this time.

President Roman commented on mold issue at Station 3. Reported that the mold issue is resolved. Brief discussion on possible investigation to confirm.

Stoll Road Safety Concerns:
Jeff Patterson distributed summary of concerning events at the fireground. Briefly discussed letter. There was discussion on the matter. The Union is in support of these concerns. Patterson also indicated that there is video and audio documentation supporting his concerns.

President Roman asked what the ultimate goal is. 1. Review of fireground operations. 2. Holding people responsible for S.O.G. violations. 3. Increased fireground safety. 4. S.O.G. revision as required.

Martin suggested face-to-face meeting about concerns.

Teigeler recommended removing Patterson’s name from letter.

Patterson commented that this will require document revision and certain elements include first hand observations and interactions.

Oates commented on recent activity of similar fireground operations that S.O.G.’s were not followed and there was not documentation of these incidences.

Lane stated that VanHall has talked to Chiefs with no progress.

Martin stated that we should keep letter as is and submit additional letter from Union supporting Patterson’s position and detailing past incidents
Teigeler asked if others that were on the fireground were willing to document their own observations.

1928: K. Hester and Maier left due to run.

Motion for safety committee to review letter and present to Chief and FOAM review by Oates. Seconded by Teigeler. Motion passed.

Hatfield made motion for a resolution to be written explaining support for Patterson. Seconded by Ruster. Motion passed.

Roman requested letter be confidential until fully prepared and reviewed.

Old Business:

President Roman stated that there are still new Union members that still owe initiation dues. Stressed the need to collect on dues.

President Roman discussed contract updates. There are many changes with the major one of being a possible 2 year contract. Discussion ensued.

1955: K. Hester and Maier returned from run.

New Business:

Martin presented Union with MERS statement. Last 08 quarter lost $1 million. Stated that retirement payouts have increased. Actuarial due this month. Report submitted to Union officers.

Teigeler talked about heading up our own Honor Guard. Stated that it would cost about $500 to fully outfit a person. Recommends just purchasing coats and using our issued pants. This will reduce the cost to $150/person. Will research further based on membership interest.

Next Meeting: will be scheduled based on contract from Township