4. Staff Report-FD Valid DL
Staff Report
Date of Meeting: April 2, 2013
To: City Council
From: Kristina Handt, Administrator
Re: Valid Drivers’ License, FD Operations Policy
Background:
The fire department has an operational policy that covers hiring, membership requirements and various
policies including those pertaining to drivers’ license requirements. During a recent review of this section
of the policy, the City Attorney identified some inconsistencies with the City of Scandia Personnel Policy
and some areas of concern. Proposed changes to this section are included in your packet.
Issue:
Should the fire department operations policy section regarding a valid drivers’ license be updated to be
more consistent with the personnel policy ?
Proposal Details:
The revisions would require a firefighter to report any legal activity that may impact their drivers’ license
to Chief. Similar to language in the City of Scandia Personnel Policy, the employee may be placed on
unpaid leave or other alternatives depending upon the circumstances. Lastly, during a revocation or
restriction the firefighter would not respond to emergency calls.
In discussions with Chief Hinz he indicated he wanted to allow firefighters to respond to calls and
training as long as they didn’t drive in order to meet their EMT licensure requirements. The language
would allow a member to still attend training, but does not guarantee that. The language allows flexibility
to address the specifics of each situation as it arises. However, they could not respond to emergency calls
without a license.
Options:
1) Direct staff to prepare resolution adopting changes at next Council meeting
2) Amend proposed changes and then direct staff to prepare for adoption
3) Make no changes to the Fire Department Operational Policy.
Recommendation:
Option 1.