2006 - 11-13-06 Regular Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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BOOK 21 PI,GE J0 current public safety communication issues as it relates to the current 911 Communications Center. Mr. Andrews asked the Commissioners to consider funding the Fire Marshal's Office through the use of general funds as other departments are and not from the volunteer fire departments. After some discussion, Commissioner Adams moved to table this matter until the County Manager can submit, for consideration, a new funding source. Upon a vote, the results were as follows: Aye: Adams, Brown, Hincks, Lemmond, Paschal, Reives, and Stevens Nay: None The Chairman ruled the motion had been adopted unanimously. The Board continued discussion submitted from the Fire Advisory Board as it related to the 911 Communications Center. Mr. Andrews asked that a review of current public safety communication issues be addressed and steps be developed to maximize countywide emergency communications. Currently, the 911 Center is under the direction of the Sanford Police Department, and the Fire Advisory Board and Fire Chiefs, along with members of the fire service, feel there is no equity within the 911 Center. Mr. Andrews further stated the TriData report had been reviewed and excerpts from the report were submitted for review. The Fire Advisory Board recommends the 911 Communications Center becomes a stand-alone department comprised of a Civilian Director and a Communications Committee. Commissioner Reives expressed concern that Police Chief Ronnie Yarborough or other City staff had not been contacted concerning this matter. He further stated the City and County should work together on this project. Commissioner Paschal also asked the question as to the cost of operating a stand-alone department. After discussion, it was recommended that a study committee be formed to assess whether a countywide 911 Communications Center is the best way to improve communications among all the emergency agencies. A report will be presented to the Board at a later date. The Board considered a proposed Contractual Agreement between Lee County and Wyeth Vaccines for Fire Inspection Services. Fire Marshal Derrick Clouston discussed with the Board the need for a full-time fire inspector at the Wyeth Vaccine facility. Mr. Clouston stated that he and County Manager David Smitherman recently attended a meeting with Wyeth representatives and discussed fire inspection services to their Sanford facility. A contractual relationship at an annual fee of $75,485 was discussed. This fee would enable the County to add a Level III Fire Inspector (Deputy Fire Marshal) to its staff to perform as the primary responder to the Wyeth facility. Mr. Clouston asked Commissioners to authorize execution of an agreement between Lee County and Wyeth Vaccines, with the understanding the new position will not be filled unless an agreement is executed between the two parties. If approved, the Board was also asked to add the Deputy Fire Marshal position to the Lee County Pay Schedule at Grade 70 ($41,598-$58,238). After some discussion, Commissioner 7