HomeMy WebLinkAbout5.E.1. Authorization to Advertise for Paid-on-Call Firefighters
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City of Shako pee COJ\IS~lfT
MEMORANDUM . r~'CM1'
TO: Mayor and City Council
Mark McNeill, City Administrator
FROM: Kris Wilson, Assistant City Administrato~
SUBJECT: Authorization to Advertise for Paid-on-Call Firefighters
DATE: January 14,2010
Introduction
The Council is asked to authorize staff to proceed with advertisement for paid-on-call firefighters
and to begin the hiring process.
Background
The Fire Department's 2010 operating budget authorizes 46 paid-on-call firefighters. The
Department currently has 41 paid-on-call firefighters actively working, plus one on long-term
military leave until the 3rd quarter of2012. Therefore, the Department is seeking Council
authorization to advertise for paid-on-call firefighters and proceed with the hiring process for up
to 5 paid-on-call firefighters.
When the individual on military leave returns, we are obligated to reinstate him, which could
lead to a situation where we would have 47 paid-on-call firefighters. However, it is reasonable
to assume that the Department will have some additional turnover or retirements prior to 2012.
If not, we can address and adjust the authorized staffing level for the Fire Department at the time
the 2012 budget is developed.
Staff anticipates bringing a hiring recommendation back to the Council in late March or early
April.
Staffhad originally planned to begin the hiring process a little later this year, with the goal of
having individuals hired in time to begin Firefighter I training at the SCALE joint training
facility in August, along with the new hires from several other area departments. However, the
City of Savage has decided to proceed with its own hiring process now and have their new hires
begin their EMT training in April, before proceeding to Firefighter 1 late this summer. Given the
number of resignations and retirements our department has experienced in the past year, Chief
Coleman would like to begin the hiring process now and follow a similar scheduled to that of
Savage's.
Relationship to Vision
A fully staffed Fire Department contributes to Goal B - a high quality of life for Shakopee
residents.
Requested Action
If the Council concurs, it should offer a motion to authorize staff to advertise for the position of
paid-on-call firefighter and proceed with the hiring process.