Chelan Fire & Rescue new Recruit Academy to start Jan. 22

CHELAN – During the Oct. 10 Chelan Fire and Rescue Commissioner Meeting the Recruit Academy and other items were addressed.
On Jan. 22 the new Recruitment Academy will kick off, Asher stated that he “will be starting to hit recruitment hard” in the next upcoming weeks. Currently Asher has 15 recruits, eight from Chelan, four from Orondo and three from Entiat.

Along those lines, on Dec. 8 Orondo will be having an open house. During those hours they will be recruiting volunteers.  
Commissioner Jay Witherbee stated that “15 is an encouraging number.”

Asher also stated that unfortunately one of the 2018 recruits has been lost,  “it doesn’t fit her life right now.” However, when she filled out the questioner she responded, “she was happy with the program, she enjoyed it, she learned a lot.” Asher encouraged her to try again in the future.

He also informed the Board that there are only five evening stipend shifts cover for the rest of year. He is trying to get more involvement to get those covered. “It is tough battle, but we will keep on fighting it,” said Asher.

In a previous meeting, there was a mention of starting a Cadet Program. Due to insurance problems, the program will be put on hold for now. “Basically they tore it apart … what our insurance is asking from us is quite substantial commitment not only time wise, but personnel wise,” explained Asher.

In new business, a 2019 draft budget was presented to the Board of Commissioners by Chief Tim Lemon. He stated that the current draft is a “base plan on the current numbers and it will change.”

The budget was kept “flat” and around $2 million to $3 million will go to operational expenses.

Lemon also described some of the Capital Improvements, they include:
• Two to three computer replacements
• Portable generators with lights and hand power tools
• Updating Sparky’s outfit
• Station 74 improvements
• Digital Audio equipment for Station 74 and Station 71
• Domestic water supply in for Station 73
• Gravel replacement on Station 75

The improvements will cost an estimated $89,000. Commissioners will get a chance to review and study the drafted budget for about a month or so.

In other business:
• The five SAFER grant volunteers that were recently hired are working hard to meet Firefighter 1 requirements. So far during the week they have completed three chapters. They will be ready to “challenge the test” either in December or January.
• Association Report:
• Last month beginning balance was $27,822, ending the month at $27,484, not including the Windermere Sup Cup award of almost $7,400 for the participation during the tournament.
•They helped with the NCW Fire Chiefs and Commissioners State Dinner. The Association received a lot of compliments regarding the food quality and the service.
• There has been planning and discussion regarding a change of Bylaws. Due to sudden events, at times there is an immediate need for funding. The change will allow the Association to conduct an immediate online vote for funding to victims with an immediate need.
•  A booth and the parade truck, along with the Association were out on Saturday, Oct. 6 at Mahogany & Merlot. There was great public comment.
• Commissioner Russ Jones got to tour all fire stations two weeks ago which he found nice to go out and see, he had never been to Station 74 and he said it is a huge one.

Upcoming Special Events at Fire Stations:
• Oct. 20 – Chelan Chase, Downtown Chelan
• Oct. 20 – Open House – Station 75 for volunteer recruitment, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Community members are invited to come and enjoy touring Fire Station 75, 12041 South Shore Lakeshore Road, Chelan. A free lunch along with the opportunity to learn more about the fire department and the many services it provides.
• Oct. 31 – Halloween – Station 71, 6-8 p.m.
• Nov. 11 – Veterans of Foreign Wars Parade and barbeque, Station 71
• Nov. 23 – Santa arrives in Chelan on Parade 71, Tree Lighting and Hot Cocoa booth
• Dec. 1 – Chelan Fire and Rescue Leadership Training Station 71, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Dec. 18 – Chelan Fire and Rescue Holiday Social, Station 71 6 to 9 p.m.