Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/13/91TAPE #888 UNAPPROVED DRAFT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 13, 1991 #0037 #0059 The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Bremerton was called to order in the City Council Chambers, 239 4TH Street, Bremerton, Washington, Wednesday, February 13, 1991, at 5:30 p.m., with Council President Lynn Horton presiding. Council members present: Lon Overson, Wayne Estes, Spencer Horning, Hank Waibel, C. R. "Tiny" Collins, Morrie Dawkins, A1 Colvin, and Russ Johnson. Also present were City Attorney Ian Sievers and City Clerk Kathleen McCluskey. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council President Horton and Invocation given by Reverend Rodney Smith of First Christian Church. President Hotton announced Council would hold an Executive Sessions, to discuss "real estate", at or near 7:00 PM, and if time permitted, a Study Session to discuss "Civil Service Staffing, immediately following the City Council meeting. President Hotton announced Item 2B under the Consent Agenda had been added relating to a Grant application. And, Item 6A will be heard one week from this date. CONSENT AGENDA - A. Minutes Of Meeting - January 30, 1991, #AB91-029. Authorization To Apply For Centennial Clean Water Funds, #AB91-033. M/S/C/U(Waibel/) to approve Consent Agenda as presented. Councilman A1 Colvin stepped out of the Council Chambers at 5:30 PM and returned to the meeting at 5:36 PM. CLAIMS/CHECK REGISTERS Vouchers audited and certified by the auditing officer as required by RCW 42.24.080, and those expense reimbursement claims certified as required by RCW 42.24.090, have been recorded on a listing that has been made available to the council. M/S/C(Dawkins/Estes) on February 13, 1991, the Council does approve for payment those vouchers included and further described as follows: 124342 through 124511 in the total amount of $370,517.27 and Regular Payroll for the period ending January 31, 1991, in the total amount of $406,222.93. Vote: In Favor: Estes, Overson, Horning, Waibel, Horton, TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 2 of 16 Abstain: Collins, Dawkins, Johnson Colvin COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS Mr. Overson congratulated City constituents on making an excellent decision for the School Bond Levy. He believed their action demonstrated a definite indicator of what is expected in this City in the future and showed a strong belief in the positive character of the City. Mr. Johnson reported on February 9, he participated in a rally supporting our military troops in Desert Storm. This rally originated at Fred Meyers and progressed down Wheaton Way. He thanked Fred Meyers' for hosting the beginning of the rally with coffee and doughnuts. He commended the Police Department and Street Department for their traffic control assistance during the event. On Saturday, February 16, 10:00 AM, a major rally in support of our military forces will assemble at 1st and Pacific Avenue and proceed up Pacific Avenue. Next Wednesday night Bremerton School District will host the District Basketball Tournaments. They requested Bremerton Cable Access Television to televise (live) the first game of the event, but ran into the problem that the City Council meeting is televised live during that specific time. Mr. Johnson announced the November 20th City Council meeting would not be televised live, but would be taped and made replayed on Thursday, February 21 (times of viewing will be posted on the Cable Access Reader Board). Mr. Colvin stated for clarification the Bremerton Central Lions Club did not want to take credit for the flags placed along Pacific Avenue each Wednesday. The credit for this project goes to the Chief Kitsap Lions Club. Mr. Colvin had received calls about the Lions' sponsored bus shelters and he wanted the public to be aware that they are provided and maintained by the Chief Kitsap Lions Club. He urged everyone to join in the rally planned for Saturday, February 16. Mr. Dawkins reported the Bremerton Central Lions Club raised $10,000 for the Lions Eyebank Program through their Radio-thon, that was held this past weekend. Mrs. Hotton stated she attended the Flagship City meeting where Bremerton Port Commissioner Fred Schoneman pointed out a legislative issue that was introduced this week. This issue addresses governmental agencies shall not engage in commercial activities providing goods or services. Some of the areas targeted are: prohibiting governmental entities from maintaining golf courses, low income housing, swimming pools, school lunch programs, TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 3 of 16 school plays and shows, school eye, hearing and scoliosis screening programs, public schooling water services. The legislation states if the governmental entity does provide these services, they must be offered at market rate. That means if the Legislation is passed and the City retained the services, the fees charged would have to be at private sector rates. She pointed out recent protests over an increase in golf fees would be insignificant compared to what the City would have to charge to meet such a State requirement. She emphasized if it is desired to preserve the quality of life in Bremerton and State of Washington and not price the average citizen out of programs, everyone should contact their State Legislator to express their opposition to House Bill 1605 and Senate Bill 5507. Mr. Johnson noted that would eliminate subsidized housing for the poor and elderly and people in crisis situations. Mr. Colvin questioned the name of the Legislator who proposed the legislation? Mrs. Hotton stated that legislation was introduced by the Association Of Washington Business. PUBLIC RECOGNITION Mayor Mentor reported this past Saturday he joined Councilman Johnson and participated in the rally-parade-march in support of our military troops. He noted the event was well attended and commended the Police Department and Street Department for their assistance in traffic control. On Tuesday, February 12, he attended a luncheon for the Commanders of the USS Nimitz and USS Camden before their deployment to the Middle East and he was please with the showing of community support of military troops throughout Bremerton. Mayor Louis Mentor read a Proclamation recognizing engineers in Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and the engineering profession throughout the United states will celebrate NATIONAL ENGINEERS' WEEK February 17-23, 1991. Mayor Mentor Proclaimed February 17-23 as Engineers' Week in the City of Bremerton. John Lansberr~, representing the Professional Engineering organization, accepted the Proclamation. Don Atkinson, representing Bremerton Main street Association, reported on the following items: (1) Rally scheduled for Saturday, February 16, 10:00 AM, starting at Wycoff Park. This rally is sponsored by the Bremerton Main Street Association and a variety of veterans' organizations. The intent of the rally is to show support for military forces around the world, who are doing their part on our behalf. The program will include brief speeches, music, prayer and the Bremerton High School Band will lead the parade along Pacific Avenue. Special decorations are planned for the parade route, that will stay in place for the next month or so. The Chief Kitsap Lions Club will put in place all American flags TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 4 of 16 that are traditionally placed in the downtown area. (2) Bremerton-Kitsap County Mariners' Night (May 4 - the Athletic Roundtable and Bremerton Central Lions Club will be working to broaden the attendance of Bremerton/Kitsap County residents at the "night at the Mariner's" to reach 5,000. In 1990, through the combined efforts of the Athletic Roundtable and Lions Club, over 800 people from Kitsap County attended that event. (3) On Saturday, February 16, the Athletic Round Table is sponsoring an Amateur Boxing Program at Bremerton Middle School, $5.00 general admission. The net proceeds from this event will be put back into youth programs in the community. Carl,,Bud" Berg, President of local chapter of NARF, announced every Monday and Friday, 12:00 noon to 4:00 PM, they are providing free tax counseling and tax preparation for the elderly. This program will continue throughApril 15. Also, as a representative for Aid Association For Lutherans, he announced a blood drive will be held at Memorial Lutheran Church on February 18. He invited everyone to participate in this blood drive as there is a desperate need for blood. Carolyn Jenkins, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard - EEO Office, reminded every one of the Community Unity Banquet, on February23, at Kitsap Pavilion, celebrating Black History Month. She reviewed ticket outlets and sponsoring groups of this event. Larr~ Eyer, Executive Director KCAP, stated KCAP is celebrating their 25th Anniversary and during those 25 years of service they had developed a number of programs and ways to provide both emergency services and self-sufficiency programs for low income residents of Bremerton and Kitsap County. Some of those programs include Kitsap Community Clinic, area food banks, County Housing Authority, self-help housing, senior information assistance, etc. And, they manage a number of key human services programs throughout the County that include: emergency shelters for the homeless (house and provide food for approximately 900 families per night), the Head Start Early Childhood Program (provide services for 330 children per year), WICK Program (provide services for 1,500 mothers and children per month), Energy Assistance/Weatherization Program (serving about 2,500 people per year), Job Training Program and food services for the elderly and child care. He noted over 50% of the people served through their programs are Bremerton residents. He thanked the City for the board members who serve on their Board of Directors, Barbara Boyd and Ken Hughes. In 1991, KCAP will continue to be a strong organization in spite of concerns of possible reduction of State and Federal funding. As part of their Silver Anniversary celebration, they will hold their Annual Awards Banquet, at the Quality Inn Bayview, on March 8. Hundreds TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 5 of 16 of volunteers and community groups will be honored for their support during this event. Tickets for the Awards Banquet are available through the KCAP Office (377-053). Rick Glomstead, Director Of Youth Ministries at Sylvan Way Baptist Church, gave an advanced announcement of a Youth Rally to be held in Bremerton in October 1991. For 25 years the General Conference Of Baptist Youth had gathered twice a year, with attendance from 700 to 1,000, in different communities across the Pacific Northwest; and Bremerton will play host to this group in October. Mr. Glomstead outlined a special hands on program whereby the youth attending this conference would experience community involvement that they could then take back to their own communities. He is seeking organizations and agencies who would be willing to have these young people involved in their programs during their conference dates. Gordon Byrd, 402 Chester #3, stated he is still getting contributions for his "Birds Nest" shelter and so far had collected $10,633.05. He thanked Councilman Dawkins for his offer to assist him in getting in contact with Governor Gardners' office to see if he could qualify for some State assistance on this project. Lastly, he is looking for a piece of property for this shelter and had already received the offer of service agencies to build the facility. 6B - PROFESSIONAL 8ERrICES CONTRACT FOR DITCH CLEANING, #AB91-031 The City Street Department wishes to enter into a Professional Services contract with Ditch Master, Inc., for the cleaning of ditches within the City limits of Bremerton. Under this contract, Ditch Master, Inc., will be paid $181.10 per hour, including tax, for their Ditch Master Truck with operator. The City Street Department will provide one flag person and one laborer. The contract shall terminate 3/31/91 and will not exceed $14,500. Ken Brees, Street Superintendent, noted a correction to item #6 on the Agenda Bill that should state "Alternate methods of ditch cleaning", not "Present methods .... ". Public Comment - none. Mr. Dawkins questioned if this firm was the sole source for the machinery and what would it cost to own? Mr. Brees stated they were the only company who made this machine and sold them only to cities, counties and State entities. The only other way to obtain use of such a machine would be to contract with another city or TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 6 of 16 #1005 county that had a machine available. The cost of a used Ditch Master was approximately $65,000 and the City did not have enough of a demand to purchase one. M/S/C/U(Dawkins/Colvin) to authorize the Mayor to enter into a Professional Services Contract between the City of Bremerton and Ditch Master, Inc., for the cleaning of ditches. 7A - CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADVISABILITY OF MODIFYING CURRENT PROCEDURE8 FOR THE PROVISION OF ADVANCED LIFE SUPPORT SERVICES, #AB91-019 Kathleen McCluskey, City Clerk, stated she had additional letters to read into the record that were received after the previous discussion of this issue. President Hortonquestioned the City Attorney if the "Appearance Of Fairness/Conflict Of Interest" question needed to be made? Ian Sievers, City Attorney, stated he believed it would be advisable to do so, as it was not absolutely clear that this was not legislative. President Hotton asked the "Appearance Of Fairness/Conflict Of Interest" question concerning this matter. Mr. Homing stated he became the center of media attention alleging a conflict of interest this past week and wished to address that situation. It seemed that the media described what his position was on this issue - it did not...he did not give away his position on this matter. This appeared to be an example of politics at its absolute worst. It was an example where there was clearly no conflict of interest and as far as an appearance of conflict one could develop an "appearance of conflict" for every member on the Council on that issue or any Shipyard issue or any government issue. Both the media's attorney and the City's attorney agreed that there was no conflict of interest. However, it seems that the media declared that he did have a conflict of interest by an unnamed source and he requested that the unnamed source come forward at this time to challenge him because this Council had always taken very special care and great concern that if they were ever challenged for any reason they would step down. If someone would challenge him at this time he would willingly step down from hearing this issue. (Note for the record: no one challenged Mr. Horning staying seated on this issue.) He stated his position was tainted by the media last week so in deference to what the City Council had always stood for of being honest, straight forward and willingness to accept any challenge he did step down from hearing this issue. He stated he truly trusted the decision of his fellow Council member and would support whatever that decision may be. Mr. Horning stepped down and left the Council chambers. TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 7 of 16 Mr. Dawkins stated anyone who had run for Mayor or was elected as Mayor had many campaign workers!inthe community and he was accused of a "conflict of interest" on this issue because an employee of Olympic Ambulance worked on his election campaign (i.e., reported as his Campaign Manager). He pointed out his daughter, Joanie, was his Campaign Manger and at least 25 City Fire and Police personnel had also assisted in his campaign. He did not believe he had a conflict of interest and remained seated to hear this issue. President Horton questioned if anyone in the audience felt any member of the Council had an appearance of fairness or conflict of interest concerning this matter. Hearing none, all Council members, except Spencer Horning remained seated. Chief Meigs stated his previous presentation provided all necessary information outlining his proposal. However, he gave a brief explanation, for the benefit of the members of the audience, of the Advanced Life Support (ALS) Transport proposal and emphasized that he believed the Fire Department could provide the residents of Bremerton a low cost service without redundancy of services. Since the last hearing, he received a number of phone calls from residents on this subject and he directed them to either attend this meeting or convey their concerns in letters to be read during public input. President Horton stated when this item was continued, three weeks ago, it was for further information, therefore, public input would be taken on this issue. William Little~ohn, owner of Olympic Ambulance, stated he appreciated the opportunity to provide his assessment of the Bremerton system. He emphasized that he had no part in designing the present transporting system, however, he always complied with the City's Ordinance and maintained a good working relationship with the Fire Department. In response to concerns stated by Chief Meigs relating to time delay of their arrival at the scene, he believed they were responding in a manner prescribed. And, there were instances where they arrived before the Fire Department personnel, depending upon the location of the call. In the ten years they had served the Bremerton area, over 90% of their responses had received words of praise from patients under their care. Concerning Ms. Rolstad's complaints outlined in a letter read during the prior hearing, he was surprised that someone from the Fire Department had not made the accusations, such as Chief McKinley who supervises the equipment inspections. As to the ambulances not having adequate heat, he noted the area had TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 8 of 16 experienced extremely cold weather during the past two months and vehicles do not warm up instantly. To answer concerns relating to limited space available in their ambulances, he had made a considerable investment in the past six months by purchasing two new ambulances. And, he offered to provide whatever equipment was requested and justified by the Fire Department. As to the complaint referencing appropriate sheets being used, if someone had observed their not doing so, he would have expected the Medical Officer to notify him. And, addressing the adequacy of drivers issue, any agency has new drivers and it is their policy to not let new people drive on emergency calls until they had demonstrated they were familiar with the City. Mr. Littlejohn proposed the following ambulance service: The Ambulance Company provides the total packaqe including first response, paramedics and transportation. He noted the advantages of such a system were: (1) duplication eliminated; (2) elimination of EMS Levy so that only the users would pay, or the Fire Department could respond with EMT's only to assist and provide extra personnel. They would explore a Subscription service if lower charges were desired; (3) a better availability of Paramedics for interfacility ALS transports would be available; (4) both ALS and BLS patients would receive the same level of care; (5) EMT's maintain their skills. Mr. Littlejohn listed the advantages and disadvantages of services if the Fire Department transported all ALS patients: Advantages - (1) The Fire Department aid car would not follow the ambulance to the hospital, however the Fire truck may have to; (2) ALS patients would be billed less than BLS patients. Disadvantages - (1) BLS patients would be billed more than ALS patients; (2) BLS rates would increase to make up for the loss of ALS calls. Many of their costs are fixed and those costs would have to be absorbed by fewer customers. Assuming they had to raise rates to cover fixed costs and two thirds of the patients pay the higher rate, it offsets the savings to ALS patients proposed by the Fire Department; (3) if EMT's are not allowed to assist with ALS calls, they lose their skills and loose interest in E.M.S.; (4) patients with heart attacks need more than one attendant. The Fire Department would be required to supply additional manpower and send fire trucks to the calls. The Fire Department's main function is to fight fires. In order to maintain sufficient fire response capability, the fire trucks would need to follow the aid car to the hospital; (5) Medicare would average the two different rates and lower the allowable charge for private rates; (6) BLS patients would be upset when they are told they were not an emergency and would have to wait for a private carrier; (7) back up service has to come from Silverdale or Port Orchard area. TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 9 of 16 Mr. Littlejohn listed the advantages of retaining the current system: (1) the first responsescapability of the Fire Department is not hampered by being tied up doing transports. It allows for maximum flexibility for the paramedics; (2) there is no confusion as to who transports. When you create a competitive system as to who transports, you lose the team spirit; (3) everyone receives the same bill regardless of ALS or BLS; (4) the Medicare allowable is not reduced; (5) there is no delay transporting non-emergency patients; (6) additional ambulances and manpower are available during a disaster or major fire; (7) This system provides for a third person to help with C.P.R. during transport. In conclusion, Mr. Littlejohn emphasized the current system worked well and any change would not result in a saving. If a charge is applied to a service that is currently tax supported, the next Emergency Medical Levy may fail. He urged the Council to hire an outside consultant to examine the merits of all proposals. He noted that areas who had changed to such as system, such as Tacoma and Port Angeles were having problems. H.O. Pickard, 2307 8th Street, questioned if the public would be provided the backup information obtained by Council's Legislative Assistant? Council had followed a good managerial course in order to make a decision on this issue and based on the information obtained and the fact that other cities throughout the Puget Sound area were already providing such service, he supported Chief Meigs' proposal. He urged the Council to make an unbiased and unprejudiced decision. De1 Knauss, Olympic Avenue, stated he supported Chief Meigs' proposal and pointed out that the citizens of Bremerton did not tax themselves to support a private ambulance company. He felt Ms. Rolstad's letter and letters from the citizens of Bremerton should be more than enough to satisfy the requirement of RCW 35.21.765. As a Bremerton taxpayer, he found it ridiculous and wasteful to have the City's aid unit and paramedic involved in transporting an ALS patient in a private carrier. Barbara Boyd. 392 Pawnee Drive, stated she viewed the proposal as an opportunity to correct a mistake made by a previous Council. She urged approval of the proposal as presented by Chief Meigs. She noted her major concern was for the many elderly in Bremerton who are not rich and able to afford the high costs of private transport. She was informed that a person could ask for a discount when using the private carrier, but she was concerned that this was not commonly known by the general public. Also, a large number of citizens cannot afford medi-gap insurance and some cannot afford any insurance at all, so this kind of big expense at the time of an TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 10 of 16 illness was very inconvenient. Concerning the possibility of such a proposal having an adverse financial effect on the private carrier, she felt it was more important to address the welfare of the citizens than the profitability of the private ambulance company. Sharon Tucker, Operations Manager for OlympicAmbulance, stated the private ambulance companies compliment the system, not to compromise it. This was accomplished by providing the extra needed manpower, extra units and allowing the medics on scene to quickly get back into service. All of this is provided to the City at no charge and they do not receive any kind of subsidy. She was not sure if the citizens of Bremerton realize that they have the best of two worlds...two full agencies ready to respond at any time. Why compromise the high level of care available to save face. Who cares if it looks bad having the Fire Department Aid vehicle follow the private ambulance. If the City transports ALS cases, the system may be reduced by at least 1/3. OlympicAmbulance~Company stands to lose up to 50% of their revenue, which would require their cutting back. The Fire Chief admitted the private carriers are needed and that was evident during a recent house fire situation where all the fire fighters and paramedics were involved and could not respond to an Emergency Medical aid call. Ms. Tucker emphasized that Olympic Ambulance would not be able to provide the full service they currently provide if the City takes on ALS transports. She was distressed that Council had not looked at any options proposed by Olympic Ambulance Company in the past to eliminate the current dual transport system. William Sleds1, 6504 Lake Drive, stated he supported Mr. Horning stepping down due to an appearance of fairness/conflict of interest on this issue. And, any other members of the Council who may also "appear" to have a conflict should also step down. He expressed concern over the high cost of ambulance services and the lack of competitive businesses with Olympic Ambulance and the fact that there were no market forces controlling the high costs. He believed Chief Meigs' proposal would be one way to control part of the costs for ambulance service. He urged the City Council to approve this proposal as presented by Chief Meigs. Graylee Johnson, owner of BremertonAmbulance, stated the ambulance companies should be looked upon as an "additional resource". If they suffer the inability to operate, due to the Fire Departments transporting, this should be viewed as a loss for both the Fire Department and community. Currently, the City has two private carriers, ambulances and available manpower to assist the Fire Department at no charge to the City. There had never been a contract with the City to provide the services they render to the TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 11 of 16 Fire Department. When considering mutual aid, the City needs to look at actual response times and patient care. Ms. Johnson cited an example whereby the mutual.aid vehicle arrived within 12 minutes and they had arrived on the scene within 3 minutes. With the estimated loss of 1,900 ALStransport calls to the Fire Department, she could see no need for two ambulance companies in the City of Bremerton. In reference to Mr. Waibel's statement regarding the review by the Operations Committee, she stated for the record that to her knowledge the private ambulance companies were not contacted for input to any Operations Committee meeting. She requested that this issue go back to that Committee so that she would have an opportunity to give input at that level. Kevin Kemp, Professional Fire Fighters and currently working for King County Fire District 16, stated his purpose for attending this meeting was to provide some further insight into the systems and how they worked His work experience included King County Fire District #39 - Federal Way, the City of MountlakeTerrace,'and now King County Fire District 16 - Kenmore. Mr. Kemp reviewed the mission and objectives of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) - the initial level of response to a call for help, stabilize the patient return to EMS availability. He emphasized the amount of time required to clean and prepare emergency vehicles and equipment after turning over a patient to a health care facility. Concerning response times, King County also experienced increased call loads. Their response to those calls have been screened at the initial response source, i.e., dispatchers, at which time ambulance companies could be dispatched. He noted public relations are the backbone of the fire service and he had much experience bringing information out to the public, such as EMS levies, etc. What he has found through this experience is that the public is willing to pay an EMS Levy Tax but where charges are made for transport services they are less willing to support such levies. Another public relations concern that he experienced was the question "why did the Fire Department transport one case over another"? No matter how well the explanation of BLS and ALS is given to the community, they think they have the right to get the same level of service as the other person. As far as transporting ALS cases by the Fire Department, most community people assume that is part of their base tax revenues and that is the service provided by the Fire Department. He did not support the idea that there were no hidden costs for additional personnel and equipment. More labor costs are incurred when labor gets involved with increased call loads, creating the demand for more service. He related some collection problems for transport services in the City of Mountlake Terrace. In King County, they did experience having an ambulance company withdraw an ambulance vehicle from their district, which put a burden and inconvenience on their system and hurt the TAPE #888 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 12 of 16 TAPE #889 response and travel times getting the patients to further assistance. He stated the issue.'of patient.transport should be one made of medical care and not economics. Don Larson, 135 Rainier Avenue, stated he believed the current system was redundant and agreed with Chief Meigs' proposal. He related an instance where his father had a heart attack and the ambulance did not respond fast enough and his father passed away. He liked the idea of the Fire Department transporting at the lowest cost possible to the public without redundant services. Elizabeth Buell, High Avenue, questioned why the ambulance companies, when picking someone up, does not tell that person or their family members that unless that person was transported to the hospital Insurance Companies will not cover the charge. E. L. Sturdivant, 3231 Halverson, stated when he served on the Council citizens would bring complaints about too many emergency type vehicles responding to an aid call and jamming up the scene. But, Police and Fire Department personnel explained that if the situation warranted that type of response then it was worth what ever congestion it brought. If Council decides in favor of this proposal and a charge of $125.00 is instituted, then every year there needs to be a "cost of living" increase built in so that the General Fund was not raped to support this program. Chief Meigs pointed out several letters had been received and should be read into the record. In answer to the quality assurance letter from Ms. Rolstad, he received another letter from the Medical Program Director of Kitsap County, which stated when Ms. Rolstad wrote the original letter it was reviewed and amended by the Medical Program Director and sent out to Chief Meigs. Chief Meigs stated Mr. Littlejohn was correct in that he had solicited that letter as an item of information for discussions in April 1990. He briefly outlined Ms. Rolstad's credentials and that she was hired specifically for the Medical Quality Assurance by the Emergency Services Council and to provide that service for the County EMS proriders. Her responsibility is to grade several aspects of the EMS service to paramedics, vehicles, EMT's, etc. When he needs an answer to a problem or potential problem concerning Bremerton Fire Department's EMS program, Ms. Rolstad is the person he goes to for that answer. Kathleen MoCluske~, City Clerk, read letters into the record from the following individuals: Eda Moeller, 525 Lebo Blvd, B-2, stating her support of Chief Meigs's proposal; R. E. Angel, 2149 5th Street, stating he believed this proposal would provide better service to the citizens of Bremerton; Shepard Life Fleet, Tacoma, #0249 TAPE #889 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 13 of 16 WA, outlining their lengthy service in the Puget Sound area and interest in pursuing future negotiations to provide service in the City of Bremerton; ~-AmericanMedTech, Bellevue, WA, stated their interest in serving the Kitsap County area in the future if the opportunity arises. Mr. Collins stated since Council had heard considerable input from Chief Meigs and Mr. Littlejohn, et al, he did not feel there was anything to gain by continuing this item. M/(Collins/ ) that the Mayor be directed to direct his staff to return to the Council an ordinance implementing the ALS transport. Motion died for lack of second. Mr. Johnson gave a review of the information provided by Council's Legislative Assistant, that included surveying the following cities who currently transport ALS cases: Bellingham, Bellevue, Everett, Olympia/Lacy/Tumwater, Port Angeles, Tacoma. Also, the following ambulance companies were surveyed as to their relationship with Fire Departments who transport ALS cases: Shepard Ambulance and Hubbard Ambulance. All the cities interviewed were well pleased with their ALS transport program, had good working relationship with private carrier(s) and had never considered returning to former methods. All cities, except the City of Tacoma, had transported ALS cases for a number of years. Survey information also included how the various cities funded their ALS transport programs, which included EMS levies, utilization of General Fund monies, charging for services, etc. Comments received from the two ambulance companies confirmed good working relationship with various Fire Departments. Mr. Johnson did not believe that anything being considered by Chief Meigs and/or Council relating to transporting ALS cases would take any ambulance company out of the ALS business... the issue is the response to 911 emergency calls. This would in no way affect those inter facility transfers for patients who were in a stable condition but needed special transporting. Also, there will be times when there will be a need for multiple ambulances, as in the case of a multiple car accident. Recently he had the situation where one of his neighbors requested a ride to the hospital because he felt he was having a heart attack. At such a moment, a citizen should not be thinking of the cost of being transported in an ambulance. Looking at this proposal from the citizens point of view, this City had always passed Emergency Medical levies by a large percentage. His constituents told him they want City in government service doing good Medic I type business. Mr. Johnson noted he believed that the current private carrier had generally done a good job for the citizens of Bremerton. And, he supported Mr. Collins suggestion that Council direct the Mayor to put together an ordinance allowing TAPE #889 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 14 of 16 the City Fire Department Emergency Services personnel to transport ALS patients to health care facilities. He questioned to want extent would the Fire Department be in the ALS business? His perception to that question would be 911 responses. Mr. Waibel stated he made his position on this subject fairly clear during the first meeting three weeks ago and wished to clarify for the record that he is not on the Council Operations Committee nor was he on the Operations Committee last year. He did, however, state that this process had been reviewed for quite some time and as Chief Meigs indicated during this meeting he had been working on the proposal since April 1990. Mr. Colvin stated some of his constituents had indicated their desire to see Chief Meigs take over ALS transport services. However, they questioned how many aid units the City had to provide this service and would there be a charge for such service? Chief Meigs stated the City had two aid units and it was his intent to propose a charge for the service? However, it was his understanding that it would be up to the Council to determine that exact amount to be charged. Mr. Colvim questioned if the funds collected would go to the Fire Department budget or would it go into the General Fund? Chief Meigs stated that would be up to the City Council, however, he hoped it would go into his budget to help augment the cost of the program. Mr. Colvin stated he supported having the funds returned to the Emergency Services fund to increase services. He questioned the number of ALS and BLS transports in a year? Chief Meigs stated it averaged approximately a little more than 2-1 ALS transports. Mr. Colvin questioned what was the action if a paramedic determined that a case was not ALS? Chief Meigs explained the patient would be treated and if transport was necessary they would be placed into the private carrier for transport to a health care facility. Mr. Colvin noted after reviewing the backup information it was his understanding that if the City undertook transporting ALS cases it would not cause the private carriers to go out of business. Chief Meigs stated that was not his intent and the private carriers did play a role in providing EMS services. And, that position was substantiated by the responses from the two ambulance companies noting their interest in providing BLS services in this area, if the opportunity presented itself. Mr. Overson stated he wished more of the active data had been brought out, such as the likelihood of this requiring significant increase to City staff and/or Fire Department. He noted the Fire Department was the most expensive department in the City per man and no one was facing up to the adverse impact on the emergency service from the proposed changes. The public may be viewing this #0822 TAPE #889 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 15 of 16 as a free ride and he wanted to assure them that it was not a "free ride". He did not believe that the $125.00 figure would cover actual cost for ALS transports. He did agree that there was an opportunity and requirement for improvement but what was being proposed was just the beginning. ~ Mr. Dawkims noted the national merits of the 911 emergency service and shared concern over the need for increased personnel and equipment to take on such a program. He did not support the City being in competition with private business. President Horton stated if this proposal is approved it would in no way mean severing need for a private ambulance service. This link is needed and if there is a problem of liquidity in those two ambulance companies, Council needed to remember that they approved their rates. At the rate review each year, the ambulance companies are requested to justify their increased rates. They will have the opportunity during the next rate review to bring to Council any justification for exorbitant increases and at that time Council would have the opportunity to discuss some type of mitigating resolution or partnership relationship. The system needs to be looked at closely at this time because there is duplication of services and is not the most efficient way to provide the service to the public. However, Council does need to be aware of the financial positioning of the private ambulance service because they do fulfill a role in the community. M/S/C/(Waibel/Collins) that the City Council approve the establishment of a City first response ALS ambulance service based on the inefficiencies and redundancy described during the two hearings on this issue and direct the Mayor to prepare an ordinance expanding emergency medical services to provide ALS transport and direct the Mayor to prepare an appropriate Budget Amendment needed to implement this program, including cost justification and any proposed fees. Vote: In Favor: Waibel, Collins, Colvin, Johnson, Estes, Horton Opposed: Dawkins, Overson, President Hotton called for a break at 7:30 PM, to go into an Executive Session on a "real estate" issue. City Council meeting reconvened at 8:25 PM. Mr. Horning returned to the Council chambers 8:25 PM. 7B - PUBLIC HEARING - REZONE - TO REOUEST PUBLIC COMMENT AND COMMENT8 AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION REGARDING REOUEST FOR A REZONE OF A 20-ACRE PARCEL FROM SF-3 TO MF, TAPE #889 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes February 13, 1991 Page 16 of 16 APPLICANT: AMERICAN REDICORP, #AB91-032 American Redicorp, Inc., requested the rezone of a 20-acre undeveloped parcel at the southwest cornerof the intersection of Almira Drive and Riddell Road from~its;present designation of "Single-family (SF-3)" to "Multi-family (MF)". The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing on January 15, 1991, at which time it considered 25 letters in opposition, a petition bearing 223 names in opposition, and testimony in both support and opposition, as well as the staff report and presentations by the applicant and Planning staff. The Commission has forwarded its recommendation to the City Council for consideration. A public hearing before the City Council is required prior to a final decision on a Rezone request. M/S/C(Waibel/Colvin) to continue this item for two weeks. #0854 Vote: In Favor: Estes, Horning, Waibel, Horton, Collins, Dawkins, Colvin, Johnson Opposed: Overson Mr. Johnson explained to the members of the audience and those viewing via television that the reconvened Rezone Public Hearing would commence at 6:00 PM, on February 27. With no further business the meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM. APPROVED KATHLEEN McCLUSKEY, C~~IT L O Council ~resident City of Bremerton KLM/LH/me cc: Normal Distribution File/Vault CLERK