Item B: Eugene-Springfield Fire Service Merger Update

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Firefighter Recruit Academy (January 2012). This will be the second joint Firefighter Recruit Academy, and will significantly reduce recruitment, selection, and training costs for both cities, while capitalizing on the expertise, facilities, and knowledge of the joint Training staff.  In October 2011, city management from both cities along with Human Resources managers and the Fire Chief met with both local fire unions to discuss the process for assessing the cost of a merged contract. City finance staffs are currently costing out both contracts and will be meeting with labor this month to discuss the prospects of a merged contract. If successful, this step will help inform a decision as to whether or not to proceed with a full merger. The successful merging of the two contracts will also allow the department to move firefighters back and forth between the two cities creating additional efficiencies. Next steps, throughout FY12, include:  Evaluate cost of a merged contract, and negotiate with labor to determine if feasible. Possibly employ consultant to help to develop an integration plan.  Purchasing and implement an integrated Records Management System (RMS); The Request for Proposal closed 9/20/11 and proposals are currently being reviewed. This new system will provide consistent data for reporting and analysis currently not available in either city. An RMS is needed in each city with, or without the merger.  Joint Human Resources, Information Technology and Finance groups will deliver their analyses and recommendations to City Managers/City Councils before FY13 budget season, so information may be considered in budget preparation.  Joint Apparatus Committee will finish development of a joint specification on ambulances (Medic Units); Eugene Fire seeks to purchase several ambulances this fiscal year, and a joint-spec Request for Proposal is expected to be out this winter. This would standardize the type, style, equipment, etc. on future ambulance purchases in Eugene-Springfield.  Formation of a Joint EMS Committee charged with standardizing all EMS supplies and equipment across the 3-Battalion System. Joint purchasing, storage and distribution options will also be examined.  Continue to work with labor unions, Councils/JEO on future vision for the department. As discussed before, managers in shared positions are still doing double-duty. The events of the past 15-months, with the transition to a functional consolidation, and continued evolution of the organization, have affected everyone in both organizations. An incremental approach to the merger has permitted both cities time to evaluate the feasibility of continued efforts. A number of efficiencies have been realized, with significant cost savings provided to both organizations. At the same time, a clear decision and long-term direction for both organizations is needed soon. S:\CMO\2011 Council Agendas\M111026\S111026B.doc