1. Roll call of members

Present
Council President deMedeiros, Council Vice President Burk, Councilor Paull, Councilor Edwards V, Council Edwards and Councilor Janick

Absent

Councilor Milbourne

Solicitor Marcello, Labor Counsel Cavazza, Town Administrator Cotta, and Clerk Chabot were also present.

Fire Chief Bailey and Deputy Fire Chief Ferreira were also present.

2. Motion and vote to convene an emergency meeting without 48 notice pursuant to RIGL 42-46-6(c) related to staffing issues and public safety concerns of the Tiverton Fire Department and the Town’s response or plan of action.

Councilor Edwards V motioned to convene an emergency meeting without 48 notice pursuant to RIGL 42-46-6(c) related to staffing issues and public safety concerns of the Tiverton Fire Department and the Town’s response or plan of action. Seconded by Councilor Edwards, the motion passed unanimously by roll call vote.

3. Emergency Agenda Item for Discussion and or Action

a. Statement of the Council President as to the need for less than 48 hours public notice

b. Update on Staffing Issues and public safety concerns of the Tiverton Fire Department and the

    Town’s response and/or plan of action.

Council President deMedeiros read the following statement: Based on media reports and the temporary closing of one of the town’s three stations yesterday,  the town council believed it was important to call this special emergency meeting without 48 hours’ notice to update the public as to the current situation and issues related to staffing of the Tiverton Fire Department, as well as to inform public about the steps that have been taken by the TA and Fire Chief to promote and protect the public’s safety and well-being.

Fire Chief Bailey gave an update on staffing: 32 positions, currently nine vacancies, and two out on Family Medical Leave (FMLA). Station 1 was closed on Friday, and reopened at night. Two staff called out sick, and four staff on duty. Deputy Fire Chief Ferreira has worked 80-100 hours. Fire Marshall Murphy was ordered to work.

Deputy Fire Chief Ferreira reached out to Chief Patrick in Little Compton, five were willing to work, but once the union found out, they nixed it. Currently, three stations are open with six staff on duty.

Chief Bailey reached out to surrounding towns for mutual aid.

Administrator Cotta identified options – per diem from out-of-town and shut down personnel at the casino.

Attorney Cavazza stated Fire Marshall’s position can be changed or abolished. Mr. Cotta will check with the State Fire Marshall’s Office.

Chief Bailey stated that two recruits were starting on Monday. The next Academy has four spots available and is actively pursuing candidates, with starting entry level at $52K. Councilor Edwards asked about the Fall River Academy. Deputy Chief Ferreira will need to contact them.

Councilor Edwards V asked about Fall River and Westport. Deputy Chief Ferreira identified issues with EMS registration issues and pay. He also asked about the per diem rate being set in the contract. Attorney Cavazza stated the council can set the per diem rate.

Councilor deMedeiros asked about laterals. Chief Bailey stated can train, has had a few, but potentially shrinking pool. Deputy Chief Ferreira stated that pay is why other towns, i.e. Portsmouth, can hire.

Councilor Paull had questions about academy graduates on Fire1 and Fire2 training and asked how long for out-of-state candidates. Deputy Chief Ferreira stated if they have national registration, no issue, but if not, not quick.

Council President deMedeiros has confidence in Chief Bailey, the situation not a reflection on him, and appreciate what he has done. Councilor Burk agreed and added Chief Bailey is a strong advocate for his staff.

Councilor deMedeiros also agreed and included Deputy Chief Ferreira as a strong advocate for the staff.

Council President deMedeiros stated plan is in place. Mr. Cotta will update the application for $52k entry-level pay

4. Adjournment

Councilor Burk motioned to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Councilor Edwards V, the motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 3:37 PM.

A True Copy.

ATTEST________________________________

                    Joan B. Chabot, Town Clerk