HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes_Miscellaneous_11/04/1992_Fire-Rescue Task Force iE
VILLAGE OF TEQUESTA
Post Office Box 3273 • 357 Tequesta Drive
Tequesta, Florida 33469 -0273 • (407) 575 -6200
3 Fax: (407) 575 -6203
40 C0041
f; C
A 4
T E Q U E S T A F I R E - R E S C U E T A S K F O R C E
M E E T I N G M I N U T E S
N O V E M B E R 4, 1 9 9 2
I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
The Tequesta Fire - Rescue Task Force held a regularly scheduled
meeting on Wednesday, November 4, 1992 in the Village Hall,
357 Tequesta Drive, Tequesta, Florida. The meeting was called
to order at 4:30 p.m. by Chairman Wade Griest. Task Force
members in attendance were: Chairman Wade Griest, Vice
Chairman Robert Mortimer, Councilmember Ron T. Mackail, Mervin
Crockett, Alec Cameron, Dr. Stanley Jacobs, and Hal
Hutchinson. Mayor Earl L. Collings was also in attendance.
Task Force member Thomas J. Rodth arrived at 5:35 p.m. Staff
members present were: Village Manager, Thomas G. Bradford;
Joann Manganiello, Village Clerk; Police Chief Carl Roderick
and Deputy Building Official, Steven Kennedy.
II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
o Mayor Collings desired to comment under Item IV.
o Village Manager Bradford asked to report on Fire Rescue
Bid Specifications.
o Boardmember Jacobs asked to read into the record, under
Item IV, a letter from John Giba.
o Chairman Griest asked to discuss upcoming meeting
schedule under Item V; and discussion under ANY OTHER
MATTERS regarding the Task Force's recommendation to the
Village Council.
o Boardmember Crockett asked to report, under Item IV, on
a position paper regarding North County Ambulance.
o Boardmember Hutchinson asked to discuss, under Item IV,
a partial review of the Fire Rescue Report submitted by
Village Manager Bradford at the previous meeting.
Boardmember Jacobs also desired to make comment regarding
that Report.
Recycled Paper
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4, 1992
Page 2
---------------------
Councilmember Mackail moved to approve the Agenda as amended.
Boardmember Crockett seconded the motion. The vote on the
motion was:
Mervin Crockett - for
Ron T. Mackail - for
Wade Griest - for
Robert Mortimer - for
Dr. Stanley Jacobs - for
Alec Cameron - for
Hal Hutchinson - for
The motion was therefore passed and adopted.
III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES (October 28, 1992)
Boardmember Cameron moved to approve the Fire - Rescue Task
Force Minutes of October 28, 1992 as submitted. Boardmember
Jacobs seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was:
Mervin Crockett - for
Ron T. Mackail - for
Wade Griest - for
Robert Mortimer - for
Dr. Stanley Jacobs - for
Alec Cameron - for
Hal Hutchinson - for
The motion was therefore passed and adopted.
IV.
o Mayor Collings stated that, although at the last meeting
he announced that he may be an ex- officio member of all
Committees, he has since been informed by the Village
Attorney that that was not so, and that he was glad to
hear it, since that meant that he could talk to committee
members without worrying about "The Sunshine Law ". He
pointed out to the Board that the Fire Rescue Report
presented by the Village Manager at the last meeting was
not a recommendation but a response to the request of the
Task Force. He felt the Board was not yet ready to make
a recommendation to the Village Council. Mayor Collings
passed out copies of a list of "Questions on Tequesta
Fire Rescue Proposal" (Attachment " A " ), given to him by
Donald Seay, to the Task Force members.
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4 1992
Page 3
---------------------
o Boardmember Hutchinson submitted to the Board, as well
as citizens in attendance, a partial assessment of the
Fire Rescue Report (see Attachment "B "). He felt the
Report did not meet any of the criteria established by
the Village Council. He further felt the Report had no
benefits to the Village or any other community, and asked
to be supplied with Mr. Bradford's purchase cost
assessments for fire /rescue equipment.
Boardmember Crockett felt he would like to review Mr.
Hutchinson's assessment of the Report before making a
recommendation, but that he would like to make a statement
regarding North County Ambulance. Boardmember Jacobs felt it
was feasible for Tequesta to have its own Fire Department and
contract with North County Ambulance and do so cost -
effectively.
o Boardmember Crockett read into the record a Statement
regarding North County Ambulance (NCA). It was his
position that the contract offered by NCA to Tequesta and
Jupiter Inlet Colony was a reasonable one and recommended
that the Village accept the proposal. He felt that there
was no need for in -house rescue services. Contract with
North County Ambulance with our own fire department.
o Boardmember Hutchinson said he was not prepared to
recommend anything.
Vice Chairman Mortimer stated that a large fire department has
benefits, as well does a small fire department. When each is
weighed out, they can run pretty close together. He was
concerned that questions he had posed to PBC F /R, i.e., for
the last three years in Tequesta, the number of:
o fires;
o HASMAT calls;
o fire deaths;
o rescues; and
o estimated fire loss,
have not yet been answered. These answers are needed so that
the Task Force might determine the kind of department needed
in Tequesta. Chairman Griest suggested that Chief Mortimer
contact PBC Chief Iacona directly to receive answers to those
questions. Chief Mortimer felt Village Manager Bradford's
Report on Fire /Rescue Report was excellent. Chief Mortimer's
comments on the Report were as follows:
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4, 1992
Page 5
---------------------
o Fire Apparatus: Recommendation was to purchase a new as
opposed to a refurbished unit in ladders. Refurbished
units pose problems. He recommends getting a four -wheel
drive brush trucks: the State Forestry Service will loan
brush units which are already set up (some being brand
new) -the Village would only have to pay the insurance
and upkeep; or they can be purchased from STARK as
government surplus (federal government surplus) in Ft.
Myers for $100 /each, which can be refurbished for less
than $3000.
Boardmember Cameron felt the Fire Rescue Report had elements
of a workable plan. He felt that labor costs reflected in the
Report were probably comparable to what a contracted entity
would have to spend for the same thing, but only to have that
entity increase their price at a later date. He questioned
as to whether bids should even be sought. He believes Mr.
Bradford's numbers are accurate, and doesn't think anyone can
do much better. Chief Mortimer felt it was necessary to
explore all other aspects and avenues, and felt bids should
be solicited.
Councilmember Mackail felt that, mechanically, the Fire Rescue
Report was a workable plan. He agreed: competitive bids
should be sought; and Tequesta needed to control its own
destiny. He wants a first -class operation, wants to do it
right and look at the long -term picture. He believes we have
an obligation to deliver a service that is cost - effective and
the best for Tequesta with or without Jupiter Inlet Colony.
o Boardmember Jacobs read a letter from John Giba into the
record (Attachment "C"): paramedics should administer
medical care and transportation; allow firefighters to
fight fires only.
Boardmember Rodth arrived at 5:35 p.m.
Boardmember Jacobs felt a useful piece of equipment would be
a QRV quick response vehicle (approximately $48,000) (equipped
for medical and fire) to be used as a first - response vehicle
to be backed up by NCA. He felt NCA's proposal under Plan A,
with two paramedics and one EMT, was best suited for
Tequesta's needs. It was Boardmember Jacobs' recommendation
that Tequesta: develop its own fire department; hire a Fire
Chief; contract NCA for medical services. Boardmember Jacobs
also thought a drive for funds - raise $100,000 - $200,000
should be considered (perhaps a golf tournament).
Boardmember Rodth stated that he and the Commission of Jupiter
Inlet Colony felt the Fire Rescue Report was a workable plan
and that a contract with NCA was the most cost - effective.
Fire- Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4 1992
Page 4
---------------------
o Fire - Medics (page 3): If Tequesta operates under an
independent department, this should be evaluated
carefully: five firefighters with the capability of
using two hose streams, instead of a department with
three firefighters which should handle the majority of
calls. Five people over three is double the manpower;
o Auxiliary (page 6): If auxiliary personnel are used, be
certain to train them and use them in combat; otherwise,
the department will not be able to keep them. Auxiliary
personnel join to fight fires and are not as concerned
about the dollars;
o Training and education (page 9): Use the National Fire
Academy in Emmetsburg, Maryland. The only cost is the
food - the Federal Government pays for everything else.
Chief Mortimer stated he has attended this Academy for
eight years consecutively, (most recently in class with
the Chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department), and feels
that better training cannot be found.
o Fire Code Enforcement (page 15): Chief Mortimer
recommended that the Village adopt the 1991 Code and
update every three years; recommended adoption of strong
sprinkler code for new construction (the same cost factor
as installing carpet) , and after 5 -6 years there is given
an insurance break;
o Vehicle Maintenance: Chief Mortimer felt the quote for
aerial ladder testing at $4500 was a bit high, since that
usually costs around $600.
o New Equipment: Guarantees are from 12, 24 months and
sometimes more, saving the department maintenance costs.
o Membership Dues: Chief Mortimer recommended the
International Firefighters Training Association, Oklahoma
state (a leader in fire service) be used, which charges
$75.00 /year.
o Lease /Purchase: Consider local banks: who sometimes have
lower rates, as well as allowing the monies to stay
within the community. Consideration should also be given
to government and state grants, as well as private
donations - (Town of Palm Beach has not purchased a fire
truck in ten years - it has all been donated).
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4 1992
Page 6
---------------------
o Village Manager Bradford submitted, and reviewed with the
Board, a draft of bid specifications for the Village of
Tequesta Fire /Rescue Protection, based on a motion made
at the last Fire /Rescue Task Force Meeting (see
attachment "D "):
The draft asks for two alternate bids: 1) Village of Tequesta
doing fire only; and 2) fire and EMS contracted out. The
specs are for a five -year bid proposal, with a statement of
costs per year, and a statement of overall benefits.
Wackenhut needs six months from signing of contract to be on
site and operational. Mr. Bradford stated the Village could
not do the same as fast. If bids are sought, the deadline for
response should be by 5:00 p.m. on December 14, with a pre -
bid conference on December 1, making a decision no later than
February 1, 1993, by which time the Task Force would be non-
existent. Boardmember Crockett expressed reservations about
contracting out for fire services.
V. CONTINUED DISCUSSION OF TEQUESTA FIRE /RESCUE SERVICE OPTIONS.
Councilmember Mackail stated that, considering the time
constraints, it might be beneficial for Tequesta to consider
having its own fire department, with possibly considering
contracting with NCA in the beginning, with eyes toward the
future of Tequesta developing its own EMS services as needed.
It appears that the original ten options are now down to three
and perhaps only one.
Assuming that a contract with an outside provider would
probably not be any less than what it would cost the Village
to provide its own fire service, the Board felt the only
lesser expense could be in labor costs, and felt that lesser
labor costs would only offer inferior labor, or labor unrest.
Mr. Bradford stated that looking at Tequesta's General
Government ($700,000), the only area of that which might
experience upward pressure by the Village having its own fire
department, would be legal services, which is presently
approximately $75,000 /year. Boardmember Crockett stated he
did not agree with Boardmember Hutchinson's concept of a 25%
increase in G & A (Government and Administration). Business
doesn't operate that way. It operates incrementally, and the
incremental cost is minimal.
Boardmember Jacobs asked Mr. Bradford if he thought we can do
this operation for the $1M which we had between Tequesta and
Jupiter Inlet Colony. Mr. Bradford replied, yes. Mr.
Crockett commented that the nubmers prove it.
Fire- Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4, 1992
Page 7
---------------------
Mr. Bradford stated that he is working on a long -term project,
trying to establish what the local Jupiter /Tequesta economic
multiplier is, in order to inform local businessmen what the
dollar impact to the local economy would be by virtue of
expenditures of Tequesta - Jupiter Inlet Colony- Jupiter -Juno
Beach, particularly if a regional fire department was created,
the positive impact to this local economy, by virtue of
spending the money locally as opposed to paying to Palm Beach
County. Boardmember Cameron noted that the money we save
between Tequesta and Jupiter Inlet Colony could be spent on
something else. He also noted that if we assume that Tequesta
doesn't pull out of PBC F/R and other cities do, Palm Beach
County's operating costs will go up and up. We have to
consider that other cities may do the same thing (opt out).
Boardmember Crockett moved that no Requests For Proposals be
sent out to outside providers for the fire department.
Boardmember Cameron seconded the motion. The vote on the
motion was:
Mervin Crockett - for
Ron T. Mackail - for
Wade Griest - for
Robert Mortimer - against
Dr. Stanley Jacobs - for
Alec Cameron - for
Hal Hutchinson - against
Thomas Rodth - for
The motion was therefore passed and adopted.
VI. ANY OTHER MATTERS
A. Village Manager Bradford read, for the record, a list of
written questions submitted by Donald Seay, and answered
each individually:
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4, 1992
Page 8
---------------------
1. What arrangements have been made for mutual aid? Have
contracts been negotiated? What will the costs to
Tequesta be to have an adequate backup? How does this
consideration affect the ISO rating?
No contracts have been negotiated. Mr. Bradford has spoken
with Bill O'Brien, Director of Public Safety of Martin County
and official source for the above subject; with Steve
Wolfberg, Director of EMS of Martin County; corresponded with
Mrs. Sue Whittle about Fire Rescue; spoken with Commissioner
elect, Janet Gettig, Martin County regarding the above. Mr.
O'Brien indicated Martin County would be most interested in
entering into Mutual Aid (reciprocal) with Tequesta. Mutual
benefit of the automatic response scenario as appears in the
Fire Rescue Report was also discussed. Martin County
currently operates that way and would be happy to look into
such an arrangement with Tequesta. Chief Arrants of Palm
Beach Gardens would be happy to have Tequesta join them in
NAMAC regarding mutual aid.
This benefits the ISO rating since Tequesta can show that "x"
number of men will be at the scene. A mutual aid agreement
counts as points regarding ISO rating, rating the fire
department, on a scale of 1 to 10. The better a department
is, the better the rating. Lake Park only has seven full -
time people, a regular Class A Pumper and a Mini Pumper, is
a member of NAMAC and has a rating of Class 4.
2. What is the source for the 15 auxiliary officers? How
can these be adequately trained and experienced for $100
per month? What requirements will be placed on them
concerning availability and responsiveness?
The source of the officers would be the
Jupiter /Tequesta /southern Martin County unincorporated market
areas. The $100 /month is what other departments are paying.
Some pay nothing. Responsibilities of the auxiliary force
will be designated by the Fire Chief.
3. Please explain what is meant by "ISO Class 4. Does this
relate to staffing levels, response time, or some other
measure of effectiveness of service? Is certification
by NFPA or some other agency required to ascertain the
actual class for a particular community? This is a
critical concern because a change in this rating could
affect insurance premium levels for residential and
commercial property owners.
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4, 1992
Page 9
Mr. Bradford gave an overview of the ISO rating system and
stated again that he feels Tequesta will maintain a Class 4
rating.
4. What professionals have helped Mr. Bradford in developing
his proposal? Does this proposal constitute a
recommendation approved by outside experts, or is it just
Tom's opinion of two possible options?
It's just Tom's opinion of two possible options. Mr. Bradford
and Police Chief Carl Roderick interviewed Fire Chief Arrants
and Fire Chief Elmore questioning them thoroughly on different
aspects of capital, personnel, and operating expenses. Other
professionals used were: Bill Kascavelis, Finance Director;
Steven Kennedy, Deputy Building Official, etc., are our own
people.
5. What specific apparatus, gear, or training will be
provided to handle hazardous waste spill cleanup? What
costs will be absorbed by the Village to obtain the
necessary backup in the case of an emergency?
No specific apparatus, gear or training was placed in the
Budget. Monies are in miscellaneous equipment and appear
there to allow the Fire Chief to have the resources necessary
to cover those items. Mr. Bradford envisions no dollars being
spent to have necessary backup, because of reciprocal mutual
aid.
6. Has Palm Beach County Fire Rescue reviewed the proposal
for comments on the comparison of the proposed services
with their operation? Could they possibly alter their
contract with Tequesta to provide a service level equal
to that proposed at a lower price?
Mr. Bradford didn't know if PBC F/R reviewd the Report and
asked Chief Jack Fredrickson if PBC had. Chief Jack
Fredrickson responded from the audience regarding mutual aid
stating that services must be equal to Palm Beach County in
order for PBC to provide reciprocal mutual aid, and Mr.
Bradford suggested that if Tequesta wanted to pay for mutual
aid we could probab -ly contract with PBC.
Boardmember Rodth suggested that if PBC abandons Station 11
in the future, wouldn't PBC and Tequesta desire mutual aid?
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4, 1992
Page 10
---------------------
7. What is the financial status of North County Ambulance?
Can we be sure of their existence in t he future?
Mr. Bradford assumes the financial status is good. Jupiter
Hospital would not take them over if their financial status
was bad. Their existence in the future cannot be absolutely
and positively assured, but its likely to exist since they are
now under Jupiter Hospital.
8. What cost escalation provision has been provided in North
County Ambulance's proposed contract of $166,000 per year
for EMS service? Has this proposal been formalized?
There is no cost escalation provision, so it is subject to
show up on an annual basis, based upon the way it is written
today. The proposal in the Fire Rescue Report has not been
any more formalized that which is there, but reasonable
assurance received from Peter Allen, NCA, and Art Ransdale of
Jupiter Hospital indicates that Tequesta can budget and count
on the dollar figure given by them for the first year of
operation.
9. Please provide a cost savings analysis for the two
proposals based on a per resident basis. My estimates
are that based on cost savings provided, this translates
to between $3.82 to $8.55 per month less compared to
PBC /FR's present basis for cost (based on estimated
millage difference on a property appraised at $150,000.)
If the ERU method is adopted, this difference is even
less. Estimated 1993 startup costs translate to about
$120 to $170 from this property owner's 1993 taxes.
This can be done on a per resident basis, or a per home basis,
using the median value home in Tequesta but time has not yet
allowed this opportunity. Preliminary spreadsheets show that
if PBC F/R continues with the historical increase of 13.7 %,
and choose the ERU avenue, and Tequesta decides on the NCA
contract, with a 7% increase per year for Tequesta - after
fives years the cost of the ERU method vs. the Tequesta cost
using millage rate, the Tequesta costs are less.
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4, 1992
Page 11
---------------------
10. Please address how traffic problems would be avoided in
an emergency situation with a fire station adjacent to
the police station, library, etc.
If the Fire Station is located behind the Village Hall, the
present walkway that exists, steps and handrails, will be cut
off. Arrangements in the driveway area can be made, by moving
signs and impediments, and perhaps police cars parked at an
angle, to allow free and clear access straight out. It is
expected that a firefighter, on first call, will stand in the
traffic area to determine whether it is clear for the fire
truck to exit the station. A flashing light could be placed
to stop traffic on Tequesta Drive.
11. How can having a $$computer literate" fire chief eliminate
the need for a secretary? Why aren't the cost of
secretarial services included in the cost estimates?
In the beginning, the need for secretarial services will not
be eliminated. Part -time secretarial services are budgeted
in the General Budget. Existing secretaries can also be used.
Much paperwork will be done before the Fire Chief is put in
place. However, on a regular, routine basis, a Fire Chief
does not need to have a full -time secretary, in Mr. Bradford's
opinion.
12. What is the estimated employee turnover rate for the two
plans? What are the expected cost and service level
impacts due to expected turnover rates?
Employee turnover rate was not factored in. It is hoped there
would be no significant turnover, as is the case for other
Tequesta employees.
13. Has the structural integrity of the existing garage been
thoroughly assessed to verify the feasibility of adding
a second floor at the $39,450 estimated cost?
The $39,450 does not include adding the second story. If the
Village is forced to do that, the monies will need to be
found, in the event Tequesta does not acquire Station 11. A
structural engineer and the Village Deputy Building Official,
who has Degree in Building Construction Services from the
University of Florida have both thoroughly reviewed the
garage. The cost estimates came from them and a General
Contractor, to renovate the garage.
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4, 1992
Page 12
---------------------
14. How were the millage rates for the potential regional
fire /rescue department derived?
The Village Finance Director acquired the assessed values from
the Property Appraisers Office using property control numbers
for Jupiter properties on the Tequesta side of the River,
unincorporated PBC on the Tequesta side of the River, etc.:
Multiplied the assessed value by .95 %, divided those numbers
into the Budget numbers, giving the millage rate.
15. Where did the $10,000 cost for a 3- bedroom mobile home
come from?
Chief Roderick obtained those prices from a dealership in
Stuart, which included the cost of a used mobile home, plus
the utility hook -up and set -up charges.
16. Why were 1993 salaries projected at the low end of the
proposed salary ranges? Was the survey done on 1992
levels? Total compensation levels should be increased
at least 10% (about $40,000) to account for salaries
being near the average of the proposed ranges.
Salaries were projected at the low end of the scale because
the Tequesta Wage Survey showed that we would be above average
or at average for each position by paying the recommended
dollar figure, plus the fact of 12,000 certified unemployed
firefighters in the State of Florida, plus recession.
Standard procedures for Tequesta for new hires: after 6
months, a satisfactory or better evaluation is rewarded with
2.5% raise; at first anniversary, anywhere from 0 -5% and
another merit raise (average has been just under 3.5 %);
projected COLA to be 3% on October 1, 1993.
B. The Board determined that the next Fire Rescue Task Force
Meeting would be held on Monday, November 9, at 4:30 p.m.
Boardmember Jacobs commented that all the members should try
to come to a decision at the next meeting as to what the Task
Force should recommend.
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4 1992
Page 13
--------------- - - - - --
VII. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
John Bartlett, PBC /FR, stated he was told by Mr. Bradford that
there were no plans to use an auxiliary force for sick time,
vacation or overtime, but that the Tequesta Fire Rescue Report
says otherwise. Mr. Bradford answered that, the Budget
contemplates that the department will remain fully functional
without the need of any volunteers. If the Chief wants to use
volunteers to augment full -time forces, or reduce overtime,
he will be allowed to make that decision.
Richard Berube asked Mr. Bradford for his qualifications for
putting together a Fire Rescue Report which should have been
done by a professional, stating that Mr. Bradford was not a
professional. Mr. Bradford stated that: 1) if someone had
been hired to do the Report, citizens probably would have
criticized the funds spent; 2) he has a Bachelors Degree in
Political Science, a Masters Degree in Public Administration,
been in City Management for twelve years, enough experience
to qualify him for being fully capable of putting together an
outline of Fire /Rescue which demystifies the subject for the
citizens of that municipality.
Boardmember Hutchinson left the meeting at 7:45 p.m.
Chairman Griest suggested that Mr. Berube get together with
Mr. Bradford to discuss in more detail any concerns he might
have.
Fire - Rescue Task Force
Meeting Minutes
November 4, 1992
Page 14
--------------- - - - - --
VII. ADJOURNMENT
There being no other matters before the Board, Boardmember
Crockett moved that the meeting be adjourned. Boardmember
Rodth seconded the motion. The vote on the motion was:
Mervin Crockett - for
Thomas Rodth - for
Wade Griest - for
Robert Mortimer - for
Dr. Stanley Jacobs - for
Alec Cameron - for
the meeting was adjourned at 7:50 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Fran Bitters
Recording Secretary
Date Approved:
ATTEST:
J nn Manganie o
Village Clerk
Questions on Tequesta Fire - Rescue Proposal
1. What arrangements have been made for mutual aid? Have contracts been negotiated? What will
the costs to Tequesta be to have an adequate backup`? How does this consideration affect the
ISO rating?
2. What is the source for the 15 auxiliary officers? How can these be adequately trained and
experienced for $ 100 per month? What requirements will be placed on them concerning
availability and responsiveness?
3. Please explain what is meant by "ISO class 4." Does this relate to staffing levels, response
time, or some other measure of effectiveness of service? Is certification by NFPA or some
other agency required to ascertain the actual class for a particular community? This is a critical
concern because a change in this rating could affect insurance premium levels for residential
and commercial property owners.
4. What professionals have helped Mr. Bradford in developing his proposal? Does this proposal
constitute a recommendation approved by outside experts, or is it just Tom's opinion of two
possible options?
5. What specific apparatus, gear, or training will be provided to handle hazardous waste spill
cleanup? What costs will be absorbed by the Village to obtain the necessary backup in the case
of an emergency?
6. Has Palm Beach County Fire - Rescue reviewed the proposal for comments on the comparison
of the proposed services with their operation? Could they possibly alter their contract with
Tequesta to provide a service level equal to that proposed at a lower price?
7. What is the financial status of North County Ambulance? Can we be sure of their existence in
the future?
8. What cost escalation provision has been provided in North County Ambulance's proposed
contract of $ 166,000 per year for EMS service? Has this proposal been formalized?
9. Please provide a cost savings analysis for the two proposals based on a per resident basis. My
estimates are that based on cost savings provided, this translates to between $ 3.82 to $ 8.55
per month less compared to PBCFR's present basis for cost (based on estimated millage
difference on a property appraised at $150,000.) If the ERU method is adopted, this difference
is even less. Estimated 1993 startup costs translate to about $120 to $170 from this property
owner's 1993 taxes.
10. Please address how traffic problems would be avoided in an emergency situation with a fire
station adjacent to the police station, library, etc.
1 1. How can having a "computer literate" fire chief eliminate the need for a secretary? Why aren't
the cost of secretarial services included in the cost estimates?
12. What is the estimated employee turnover rate for the two plans? What are the expected cost and
service level impacts due to expected turnover rates?
13. Has the structural integrity of the existing garage been thoroughly assessed to verify the
1
feasibility of adding a second floor at the $39,450 estimated cost'?
14. How were the millage rates for the potential regional fire- rescue department derived?
15. Where did the $10,000 cost for a 3- bedroom mobile home come from?
16. Why were 1993 salaries projected at the low end of the proposed salary ranges? Was the
survey done on 1992 levels? Total compensation levels should be increased at least 10%
(about $40,000) to account for salaries being near the average of the proposed ranges.
2
Q I
•4 ♦ 7�
TO: TEQUESTA FIRE RESCUE TASK FORCE
FROM: HAROLD "HAL" HUTCHINSON
SUBJECT: RECORD OF PARTIAL ASSESSMENT "TEQUESTA FIRE
RESCUE REPORT"
DATE: 4 NOVEMBER 1992
MY ASSESSMENT TO DATE OF THE SUBJECT REPORT WAS MADE IN CONCERT WITH
CRITERIA ESTABLISHED BY VILLAGE COUNCIL -- "EQUAL OR BETTER, NO COMPRO-
MISE IN THE QUALITY OF SERVICES, LESS COST, NO VOLUNTEERS ". FOR THE
RECORD, "THE REPORT SUBMITTED BY MR. BRADFORD DOES NOT MEET ANY OF THE
CRITERIA ESTABLISHED BY VILLAGE COUNCIL.
HERE IS WHY:
AREAS ASSESSED
1 - STAFFING LEVEL AND STRUCTURE.
2- STAFF SALARIES.
3- TOTAL COSTS.
4- EQUIPMENT COST COMPARISON.
COMMENTS
1- STAFFING LEVEL AND STRUCTURE.
A- A FIRE CHIEF WITH ONLY FIFTEEN (15) "FIREFIGHTERS-PARAMEDICS-
LIEUTENANTS", IS INSUFFICIENT AND DOES NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE
PERSONNEL COVERAGE FOR "SICK TIME - VACATIONS - WORKER COMP. TIME -
TRAINING- ETC. " . OVERTIME WOULD NOT BE ADEQUATE EITHER TO COVER
THESE AREAS.
IN ORDER TO PROVIDE AN ADEQUATE STAFFING LEVEL, THREE (3) ADD-
ITIONAL PROFESSIONALS WOULD HAVE TO BE ADDED. IN ADDITION, A
CAPTAIN SHOULD BE ADDED TO COVER AND BE RESPONSIBLE FOR "OPER-
ATIONS ACTIVITIES SUCH AS FIRE AND E.M.S. SERVICES- IN ORDER
TO ALLOW THE CHIEF ADEQUATE TIME FOR ADMINISTRATION DUTIES.
B- STAFF LEVEL IS INSUFFICIENT TO ADEQUATELY COVER "STRUCTURE FIRES
AND RESPONSES TO COMMERCIAL CALLS ". VOLUNTEERS WOULD NOT BE ADE-
QUATELY TRAINED TO PERFORM THIS IMPORTANT FUNCTION EITHER.
2- STAFF SALARIES
A- SALARIES SHOWN FOR THE VARIOUS STAFF POSITIONS IS TOO LOW TO
ATTRACT AND RETAIN "PROFESSIONAL, EXPERIENCED PERSONNEL" RE-
QUIRED TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE FIRE AND E.M.S. SERVICES.
SALARIES SHOWN WILL ONLY ATTRACT "ENTRY LEVEL PERSONNEL " . IF
HIRED, THEY WOULD REQUIRE CONSTANT TRAINING, ONLY GAIN EXPER-
IENCE ON THE JOB AND LEAVE TO JOIN OTHER FIRE /EMS COMPANIES,
WHO DO PAY HIGHER SALARIES.
3- TOTAL COSTS.
TOTAL COSTS ARE SHOWN IN ATTACHMENTS TO THIS REPORT. I ALSO HAVE
SHOWN A FIVE (5) YEAR PROJECTED COST COMPARISON BETWEEN "P.B.C.
FIRE RESCUE AND TEQUESTA FIRE RESCUE"
NOTE: COSTS FOR 1994 AND PROJECTED COSTS BEYOND THAT PERIOD USE
"MR. BRADFORDS ANNUAL INCREASES OF 9% FOR TEQUESTA AND 13.7% FOR
P.B.C. FIRE RESCUE ".
IN ADDITION, I HAVE INCLUDED A SUMMARY WHICH SHOWS EXACTLY "HOW
MUCH MORE" A TEQUESTA FIRE RESCUE DEPARTMENT WILL COST THE RESID-
ENTS OVER THE NEXT SEVEN YEARS
THESE COST PROJECTIONS AND THE SUMMARY OF ADDITIONAL COST IN THE
YEARS SHOWN, CLEARLY SHOW THAT IT WILL TAKE UNTIL THE YEAR "2000"
TO BEGIN TO SAVE MONEY " $14,712.00 " . HOWEVER, IT WILL HAVE COST
A TOTAL OF " 1,571,761.00 ", TO GET TO THAT POINT.
CONCLUSION:
MY LIMITED ASSESSMENT TO DATE OF "MR. BRADFORDS FIRE RESCUE REP-
ORT" HAS CONVINCED ME-- - THERE ARE NO BENIFITS TO THIS VILLAGE, OR
OR ANY OTHER COMMUNITY, TO EVEN CONSIDER IMPLEMENTING HIS PLAN.
NOTE: I HAVE INCLUDED A COST COMPARISON BETWEEN " TEQUESTA AND PBCFR"
FOR EQUIPMENT MR. BRADFORD MAINTAINS HE CAN PURCHASE HIS EQU-
IPMENT FOR V/S WHAT PBCFR PAYS FOR THEIRS.
AS YOU CAN SEE, THERE IS A GROSS DIFFERENCE THERE ALSO.
RESPECTFULLY,
HARD "HA 11 �L�TSBA1
ATTACHMENTS
HLH /hlh
CC'S TO:
CONCERNED CITIZENS IN ATTENDANCE
VILLAGE COUNCIL
TOM BRADFORD
NEWS MEDIA
SALARY COST ASSESSMENT
F/Y 1993 $ 181,033.00 Total cost shown for salaries
79,031.00 25 % for Admin /Finance (G & A cost)
$ 260,064.00 Village actual cost for F/R 5 months
332,255.00 PBC Fire - Rescue for 5 months
$ 592,319.00 Actual Village Cost for 5 months
465,157.00 PBC Fire - Rescue for 7 months
$1,057,476.00 Total F/R cost for 1993
797,410.00 PBC Fire - Rescue Cost for 1993
$ 260,066.00 Additional Cost to the Village
TEQUESTA FIRE RESCUE W /EMS IN HOUSE
F/Y 1993 $ 456,785.00 Net Expenditures
79,031.00 25 % Admin /Finance /G &A cost 5 months
$ 535,816.00 Actual Village Cost for F/R 5 months
332,255.00 PBC Fire - Rescue for 5 months
$ 868,071.00 Actual Village Cost for 5 months
465,157.00 PBC Fire - Rescue Cost for 7 months
$1,333,228.00 True Cost to Village for 1993
797,410.00 PBC Fire - Rescue Contract Cost
$ 535,818.00 More Cost than with PBCFR
It's obvious, by these numbers, it will cost the residents of
Tequesta $ 535,818.00 more in F/Y 1993 to implement your plan.
It's also obvious you have not considered sharing this cost with
"Jupiter Inlet Colony."
TEQUESTA FIRE RESCUE W /EMS IN HOUSE
F/Y 1994 $ 952,490.00 Net Expenses
206,746.00 25 % for Admin /Finance /G &A F/Y 1994
$1,159,236.00 Total Village Cost F/Y 1994
906,655.00 PBCFR with 13.7 % increase
$ 252,581.00 More Cost than with PBCFR
FIVE (5) YEAR PROJECTION
F/Y TEQUESTA/9% PBCFR /13.7% DIFFERENCE
1995 $ 1,263,567.00 $ 1,030,867.00 + 232,700.00
1996 $ 1,377,288.00 $ 1,172,095.00 + 205,193.00
1997 $ 1,501,244.00 $ 1,332,672.00 + 163,572.00
1998 $ 1,636,356.00 $ 1,515,249.00 + 121,107.00
1999 $ 1,783,628.00 $ 1,722,838.00 + 60,790.00
FIVE (5) YEAR TOTAL $ 768,650.00
2000 $ 1,944,155.00 $ 1,958,867.00 >14,712.00<
SEVEN (7) YEAR ADDITIONAL COST SUMMARY
1993 $ 535,818.00
1994 $ 252,581.00
1995 $ 232,700.00
1996 $ 205,193.00
1997 $ 163,572.00
1998 $ 121,107.00
1999 $ 60,790.00
TOTAL $1,571,761.00
♦ 4 w
TEQUESTA FIRE RESCUE
EQUIPMENT COST
TEQUESTA COST PBCFR COST
Class A - 1,250 G.P.M.
Pumper (New) $ 175,000.00 $ 228,000.00
= (41) (Equipment) 31,475.00 50,755.00
Total. $ 206,475.00 $ 278,755.00
75' Aerial Ladder Truck $ 233,000.00 $ 345,000.00
(41) (Equipment) 31,475.00 60,000.00
Total $ 254,475.00 $ 405,000.00
Rescue Unit (New) (42) -. J � $ 50,000.00 $ 85,000.00
(Equipment) 25,400.00 $ 39,037.00
Total $ 75,400.00 $ 124,037.00
Rescue Unit (Used) (42) $ 30,000.00
25,400.00
J. G. REALTY CONSULTANTS John J. Glba
Plata 222 - Suito 219 R.R. Real 6.tatu 9tot,.
U.S. N1, Tocluata, F1ocida 33488.2742
(407) 748.4800
7z �
T6 A.� WVW _ 9�
cy -> &cog- ov
f.
°t. Y-e,
(
w�
.Vtanatement Coum.littt Feuibility Stu&m R.E. tnve.tawm Mutet tt""Ich
J. G. REALTY CONSULTANTS John J . Gib&
piss& 222 - Suite 212 H.R. Rest Estate Nrots►
U.S. #I, Tequests, FloridR 33460.2742
14071 148.4500
CMo CV44;?
s o I At •
k) r 5 w O/
s
tom p ( Z%,Ot elll a WV444 -t y wv-- -t� 2
; v Y-&-A �4
---f 04 jAol�
'o , 000 — f w, " WA�^�
1 `t s _. Y-o
AL
Yo 7' ¢
VA
M anagement Counselled F•Yibilmy S t udies R.l. Ier.N e•n1 Mutes N•M.Rh