Ad-Hoc Meeting Update

The Ad-Hoc public safety committee had a meeting last night.  I presented the proposed concept for the future structure of the Fire and Rescue services in our fair City at that meeting.  There weren’t a whole lot of questions and I thought that some of the points that were raised had merit.  I expect that we will be looking at some of the finer points of the proposal as we get down to the business of writing the ordinance.  The committee refered the concept to the entire Council for consideration.  That will be Monday night (as it currently stands).  If the Council likes it, they may order staff to reduce the concept to an ordinance.

 See, this is really the beginning.  We have a concept but what really matters are the actual words – the law that will control our future operations.  I know that people are getting antsy (I’m among them) but writing the ordinance is the most important part – we can’t rush to get to the finish and make a misstep – public safety is just too important.

So, the concept will be presented to a Council worksession monday night.  Before I close, I would like to thank 3 groups of people for their help thus far:

1.  The other members of the City Council for their help and support.  Marc and Steve have given generously of their time and energy.  Jon is the king of org structure and has been very helpful.  The rest of the Council members have also been very patient as the Ad-Hoc committee has navigated it’s way through some challenging issues. 

2.  Our Fire and Rescue community.  All of those guys and gals have been very patient as the Committee has grappled with these issues.  There is a lot of learning going on – on all sides.

3.  The Mayor for his steady and patient support for this committee and helping to guide our efforts.  He has more experience than any on the Council in fire fighting and has been generous in sharing his time and knowledge.

Remember, the most important part is about to start.  Let us not take our collective eye off the ball in a rush for satisfaction.  I’m the king of immediate gratification so it will continue to be a challenge…..:)