The meeting was called to order at 3:00 pm. In attendance were Supervisors Brandt, Peterson, and Wortham, the Clerk, and Chief Clasen.

A discussion of the proposed budget for 2015 took place. Brandt asked Clasen about fire department budget needs and specifics on the new truck.

Clasen outlined some changes in the department that will help hold budgets even, including a 10% reduction of the number of members, consolidation of drills so multiple topics can be covered at one meeting, and the completion of the switch to 800Mhz communication.

A committee has been formed to develop the specifications for the new truck so that bids can be requested. Clasen felt that work could be done so that the truck could be ordered in June with delivery in early 2015. Initial plans call for a small pumper equipped with Jaws of Life and a cascade system. The department would then decommission E15, R16 and the old grass rig that is now in cold storage. Due to the cost, a sealed-bid process is required and would like to present info about the purchase to the public at the annual meeting.

Discussion regarding the fire department bylaws took place including:

• Change participation requirement from 50% to 66%;
• Change officer structure & selection process following general rules outlined by Secretary of State;
• Require background check and drug test for new applicants;
• Include page numbers and revision date on each page;
• Specifics of pregnancy/leave of absence policy and Family Leave Act compliance;
• List specific requirements for medical exam and drug testing;
• Details of what constitutes quorum for meetings;
• Review of residency requirments;
• Policy regarding notification to township of major incidents;
• Include submission of budget plans to board in list of chief’s duties;
• Add more info regarding the First Responder policies;
• Add details regarding storage of Material Safety Data Sheets for all materials in use;
• Look at using a lock-out policy for hazardous or out-of service equipment & materials;
• Handling of blood-borne pathogens and sharps;
• Safety incident reports to the town board;
• Maintain file of all equipment certifications;
• Policy on cancelled calls, including billing to homeowner and payment to members for those calls;
• Security of building and equipment, keeping entry code from non-authorized persons, making sure doors are closed, security cameras.

Review of the bylaws will continue until the Board can take action to approve.

There being no further business to conduct, the meeting adjourned at 4:55 pm.

John Plein
Ideal Township Clerk
February 5th, 2014