Blog Note: This article
published the entire grand jury report. We post here only the findings and
recommendations.
FINDINGS
Our interviews uncovered
multiple issues which contributed to the resignation of the former Fire
Chief and designation of an interim chief. Disrespect for the former Fire Chief
was apparent at all levels within the Department and was largely based on
the feeling that he didn't know how to run a county fire department as
opposed to a city fire department. Different staff members had a variety
of opinions related to the plans they thought the Chief had proposed for
the Department, indicating he either had a problem communicating or
planning. Many upper management members of the Fire Department did not
want to make changes in the way the Department was run. These factors
resulted in Department Staff writing a letter to the Board of Supervisors
requesting the removal of the Fire Chief. The Board of Supervisors requested
his resignation.
Apart from conflicts
between the former Fire Chief and staff there were several other
problems within the Department which remained unresolved. Conflicts
between staff at the Battalion Chief and Captain level has been a long
term problem in the Department. The working relationship between Mariposa
County Fire Department and Cal-Fire needs improvement.
Background checks were not
being conducted on volunteers. Further the Department has not updated
Standard Operating Procedures or policy books. There are also pay issues
resulting from mismanagement or lack of communication regarding the pay
voucher system.
The Interim Fire Chief has
developed and enacted a plan to resolve conflicts and make the Department
more effective. Re-organization of County Fire includes: chain of command,
an improved training regimen and certification, and updating policies and
procedures. Further improvements include streamlined pay management and
conducting background checks for volunteers. The Interim Fire Chief has
also begun to improve cooperation with Cal-Fire and a work and training
relationship is being developed.
MPUD Fire will not be part of the re-organization as they are a separate entity and
it would cost money rather than save money to fold them into County Fire.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Support the Interim Fire
Chief as he continues to reorganize the County Fire Department.
2. Mandate periodic
physical examinations and physical fitness certification as recommended by
the County Health Officer.
July 6, 2015
Sierra
Sun Times
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