From WZEP
SOUNDING THE ALARM
Commissioners Approve Study to Merge Fire/Rescue with Sheriff
Keeping good on her promise, freshman Commissioner Melanie Nipper proposed a feasibility study at Tuesday’s commission meeting to merge Walton County Firefighters and Paramedics with the Sheriff’s Office
Nipper made the proposal after several fire/rescue personnel approached her and Commissioner Tony Anderson about deplorable living conditions at some of the county’s aging facilities.
“I think it would be worth it, to consider it,” said Nipper. The Commissioner suggested enlisting the aid of personnel from Broward and Citrus counties, the only two counties in Florida to accomplish such a move, in helping evaluate where the county stands in terms of resources and personnel.
Commissioners heard from several firefighters who complained about mold and other maintenance issues at primarily the Freeport and Paxton fire stations. They cited health problems and low morale and said they believed by turning operations over to Sheriff Michael A. Adkinson, Jr., he could turn things around.
Chairman Cecilia Jones asked how much such a study would cost and who would pay for it. County Administrator Larry Jones estimated the cost of a study would be between $20,000 to $25,000 dollars and could take several months to complete by the time contracts were drawn up, reviewed and awarded.
Commissioner Sara Comander was clearly impatient with such a delay. “If we need to fix these stations, why wait,?” she asked. Comander said the board should spend the money now to fix critical issues. Comander concurred with the study however, she said she felt strongly that any study be done by an independent organization and “out of house.”
Comander complemented Sheriff Adkinson on management of the Sheriff’s office but noted his office already receives 54% of the county’s budget and he already controls the jail, animal control, emergency communications and, just recently moved to acquire responsibility for the Department of Children and Families.
Commissioner Tony Anderson said he was appalled at the living conditions in two of the facilities and supported urgent action.
Commissioners peppered Walton County Fire Chief Bobby Martin about budget priorities. Martin said he was doing the best with what he had and informed commissioners that construction was already underway at the Freeport facility and workers would begin on the Paxton station next. “It’s always a budget issue,” Martin told WZEP. “We do all we can with what they (the commission) give us.”
Firefighters complained about the delay in action and slow pace of change. Since Martin took command of the 100 member agency two years ago, he has made numerous improvements. With a budget of $10 million dollars, he manages all fire and rescue services north of Choctawhatchee Bay with the exception of Argyle and Liberty independent fire districts.
Battallion Chief Robert Daniels said Martin is doing the best he can with what he has.”He has brought us into compliance with the State Fire Marshal’s standards, achieved new standards with respiratory guidelines with the DOH, delivered 4 new ambulances with two more on the way, 2 new tanker trucks and increased manpower to ensure there are at least two firefighters on every truck.” However, Daniels says one of Martin’s biggest accomplishments is enhancing the insurance fire rating for residents. “We went from and 8 or 9 to within a quarter of a point of being awarded a 4 now,” said Daniels.
Local Resident Mike Flynt suggested Commissioners consider raising the current $75 assessment on homeowners to $150 to pay for needed improvements.
Commissioners voted unanimously to commission a study, which will not get underway until early spring. In the meantime, commissioners, the fire chief and firefighters will hold a workshop to address immediate concerns.
Replies
43
Beach LoverAuthor
"Fire Rescue under the sheriff's office would be significantly different in both practice and substance," Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson said. "I expect a high level of professionalism and a commitment to being the best."
By Deborah Wheeler | 315-4432 | @WaltonSunDeb | dwheeler@waltonsun.com
DeFUNIAK SPRINGS - At the last Walton County Board of County Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Melanie Nipper proposed that the North Walton Fire District be moved under the control of the Walton County Sheriff's Office.
Sheriff Michael Adkinson said recently he was somewhat surprised by the suggestion when first approached by commissioners and firefighters.
"The important thing for me is to make sure that as we consider this, that it improves the quality of service to the citizens and staff," Adkinson said. "The obvious difference between the board's supervision and the Sheriff's Office is that the board has multiple responsibilities competing for time, attention and resources. They build roads, determine zoning, codify planning and attend to the various responsibilities of governance.
"At the sheriff's office, we are in the business of public safety. So, like the fire department, we strive for one team, one mission."
However, Adkinson said he does not want to mislead anyone.
"Fire Rescue under the sheriff's office would be significantly different in both practice and substance. I expect a high level of professionalism and a commitment to being the best," he said.
As an example. he said all sheriff's deputies are subject to mandatory physical fitness assessments, a no-tobacco policy, background checks and polygraph examinations.
"All new firefighters would be subject to the same expectations," he said. "There would be an increased emphasis on professional training. I will demand a lot, and in return we will provide a venue for continued professional growth and improvement of service delivery."
Adkinson said he has spent time talking with experts such as South Walton Fire District's Chief Rick Talbert and former Pensacola Fire Chief Russell Beaty.
"Half of all knowledge is knowing where to find it," he said. "Citrus and Broward counties both currently oversee fire rescue in their respective counties and have a fantastic track record of improving performance."
www.newsherald.com/news/20170108/walton-sheriff-mulls-taking-over-fire-district
By Deborah Wheeler | 315-4432 | @WaltonSunDeb | dwheeler@waltonsun.com
DeFUNIAK SPRINGS - At the last Walton County Board of County Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Melanie Nipper proposed that the North Walton Fire District be moved under the control of the Walton County Sheriff's Office.
Sheriff Michael Adkinson said recently he was somewhat surprised by the suggestion when first approached by commissioners and firefighters.
"The important thing for me is to make sure that as we consider this, that it improves the quality of service to the citizens and staff," Adkinson said. "The obvious difference between the board's supervision and the Sheriff's Office is that the board has multiple responsibilities competing for time, attention and resources. They build roads, determine zoning, codify planning and attend to the various responsibilities of governance.
"At the sheriff's office, we are in the business of public safety. So, like the fire department, we strive for one team, one mission."
However, Adkinson said he does not want to mislead anyone.
"Fire Rescue under the sheriff's office would be significantly different in both practice and substance. I expect a high level of professionalism and a commitment to being the best," he said.
As an example. he said all sheriff's deputies are subject to mandatory physical fitness assessments, a no-tobacco policy, background checks and polygraph examinations.
"All new firefighters would be subject to the same expectations," he said. "There would be an increased emphasis on professional training. I will demand a lot, and in return we will provide a venue for continued professional growth and improvement of service delivery."
Adkinson said he has spent time talking with experts such as South Walton Fire District's Chief Rick Talbert and former Pensacola Fire Chief Russell Beaty.
"Half of all knowledge is knowing where to find it," he said. "Citrus and Broward counties both currently oversee fire rescue in their respective counties and have a fantastic track record of improving performance."
www.newsherald.com/news/20170108/walton-sheriff-mulls-taking-over-fire-district
Beach Fanatic
Like anything, especially in government, until a problem is illuminated for all to see it is rarely seen. That being said I am willing to see what those folks do, and hopefully it is addressed in a timely manner. I appreciate that the Commisioners have made what appears to be a commitment to addressing this issue and Mr Fletcher for making it a talking point during his campaign.
Beach LoverAuthor
Like anything, especially in government, until a problem is illuminated for all to see it is rarely seen. That being said I am willing to see what those folks do, and hopefully it is addressed in a timely manner. I appreciate that the Commisioners have made what appears to be a commitment to addressing this issue and Mr Fletcher for making it a talking point during his campaign.
I think the residents of North Walton deserve the same level of services as those enjoyed by South Walton. Admittedly, there is no funding for brand new buildings (I get that) but is doesn't mean those stations can't be professionally run. The County has had years to bring up standards, utilize safety training tips and tools, implement adequate training and equipment and address ongoing safety issues but the reality is, it's not their job. Their job is to oversee the running of Government and they can't even manage that successfully.
Again my whole point was and is, that we can spend millions on frivolous lawsuits using taxpayer money to defend NOT OPERATING in the Sunshine but the County can not, has not, and for whatever reason will not put taxpayer money to good use. If the County can't get the job done in 10 + years then perhaps its beyond time to turn it over to someone who can!
Beach Fanatic
I think the residents of North Walton deserve the same level of services as those enjoyed by South Walton. Admittedly, there is no funding for brand new buildings (I get that) but is doesn't mean those stations can't be professionally run. The County has had years to bring up standards, utilize safety training tips and tools, implement adequate training and equipment and address ongoing safety issues but the reality is, it's not their job. Their job is to oversee the running of Government and they can't even manage that successfully.My point was and is the condition of the stations. I have not expressed my opinion one way or another on the issue of the Sheriff Department running WCFR. If that is what the members of that department want then look at it, see if it is something that is feasible. I would hate for this to be a political football as some of the operations that have been in the past. I am also of the opinion that it will really make no difference who runs it as part of the problem is funding. If the County isn't willing or able to fund it we run into the same problem in spite of who runs it. I believe management may improve efficiency but if you are under funded you can only make up so much.
Again my whole point was and is, that we can spend millions on frivolous lawsuits using taxpayer money to defend NOT OPERATING in the Sunshine but the County can not, has not, and for whatever reason will not put taxpayer money to good use. If the County can't get the job done in 10 + years then perhaps its beyond time to turn it over to someone who can!
Beach LoverAuthor
My point was and is the condition of the stations. I have not expressed my opinion one way or another on the issue of the Sheriff Department running WCFR. If that is what the members of that department want then look at it, see if it is something that is feasible. I would hate for this to be a political football as some of the operations that have been in the past. I am also of the opinion that it will really make no difference who runs it as part of the problem is funding. If the County isn't willing or able to fund it we run into the same problem in spite of who runs it. I believe management may improve efficiency but if you are under funded you can only make up so much.
So you're not interested in professional services for North Walton just band-aid fixes?
I'll grant you that if citizens in NoWal only want band-aid fixes that's all they are going to get and if it continues in the current vein, we wont have ANY Firefighters or EMT's willing to do the job. They will continually move on just as they have been doing to better well run departments.
The other point I'm trying to make and I feel you keep making light of is, that these departments need professional training and equipment to do the job!
$175,000.00 would have helped substantially. Don't get me wrong, I'm extremely proud of Suzanne Harris for everything she's accomplished but NOT so much in County Government.
Most residents living South of the Bay will agree...County Government sucks.
Beach Fanatic
So you're not interested in professional services for North Walton just band-aid fixes?First let me reiterate, I live in Freeport so my services are important to me. Second, I am more than willing to pay for the services. Third, it still comes down to funding. You can go with the Sheriff's department but if the funding does not change, efficiency through management will only make up so much. Fourth, tell me exactly what training they should recieve? Most training is done at the station or company level for firefighters. The WCFR has a few props that are used for fire training, one being a rolling burn building, they also have a forcible entry props and I believe they also have a car fire training prop. Now if you believe they need a training chief to recieve the "Professional Training" then say that. The place I work uses a committee of professionals, all employees, for our training and currently we don’t have a training chief. EMS training is offered, where I work, via online and classroom opportunities. There are also opportunities located in our community for continuing EMS education. Sacred Heart provides some of the opportunities as does FWB Medical Center and there is a couple of conferences in the area for Medical Professional like Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic. For outside conferences for firefighters, there is the Atlanta Fire Conference, Orlando Fire Conference, Highrise Conference in Pensacola and recently a group called All In Fire brought a class to WCFR. As for equipment, let's define the need. Depending on what you purchase, the Self Contained Breathing apparatus that WCFR has is the MSA, with either a 45 min or 60 min bottle, I am not sure. Currently where I work we use 30 min bottles. Depending on the fire apparatus you want, commercial or custom will depend on what you pay. A new custom pumper can cost 300000 to 500000, a ladder truck can easily exceed a million dollars. Let's discuss safety, NFPA standards say you really shouldn't operate with less than 4 on an engine, also you have a 2 in 2 out rule for safety. I can assure you I have not taken lightly anything, I feel I have a vested interested, I have family and friends that are part of that department. In the end and to conclude, tomorrow is a new day and hopefully there is some positive changes coming for the members of WCFR. Where I work did not change overnight, and I have been there 22 years and we are still a work in progress.
I'll grant you that if citizens in NoWal only want band-aid fixes that's all they are going to get and if it continues in the current vein, we wont have ANY Firefighters or EMT's willing to do the job. They will continually move on just as they have been doing to better well run departments.
The other point I'm trying to make and I feel you keep making light of is, that these departments need professional training and equipment to do the job!
$175,000.00 would have helped substantially. Don't get me wrong, I'm extremely proud of Suzanne Harris for everything she's accomplished but NOT so much in County Government.
Most residents living South of the Bay will agree...County Government sucks.
Edited
Beach LoverAuthor
First let me reiterate, I live in Freeport so my services are important to me. Second, I am more than willing to pay for the services. Third, it still comes down to funding. You can go with the Sheriff's department but if the funding does not change, efficiency through management will only make up so much. Fourth, tell me exactly what training they should recieve? Most training is done at the station or company level for firefighters. The WCFR has a few props that are used for fire training, one being a rolling burn building, they also have a forcible entry props and I believe they also have a car fire training prop. Now if you believe they need a training chief to recieve the "Professional Training" then say that. The place I work uses a committee of professionals, all employees, for our training and currently we don’t have a training chief. EMS training is offered, where I work, via online and classroom opportunities. There are also opportunities located in our community for continuing EMS education. Sacred Heart provides some of the opportunities as does FWB Medical Center and there is a couple of conferences in the area for Medical Professional like Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic. For outside conferences for firefighters, there is the Atlanta Fire Conference, Orlando Fire Conference, Highrise Conference in Pensacola and recently a group called All In Fire brought a class to WCFR. As for equipment, let's define the need. Depending on what you purchase, the Self Contained Breathing apparatus that WCFR has is the MSA, with either a 45 min or 60 min bottle, I am not sure. Currently where I work we use 30 min bottles. Depending on the fire apparatus you want, commercial or custom will depend on what you pay. A new custom pumper can cost 300000 to 500000, a ladder truck can easily exceed a million dollars. Let's discuss safety, NFPA standards say you really shouldn't operate with less than 4 on an engine, also you have a 2 in 2 out rule for safety. I can assure you I have not taken lightly anything, I feel I have a vested interested, I have family and friends that are part of that department. In the end and to conclude, tomorrow is a new day and hopefully there is some positive changes coming for the members of WCFR. Where I work did not change overnight, and I have been there 22 years and we are still a work in progress.
"NFPA standards say you really shouldn't operate with less than 4 on an engine, also you have a 2 in 2 out rule for safety."
How's that working out for the firefighters in the north end? Not very well! That is a safety issue and not one I brought up but since you did why not expound on how it's currently being done. That should get somebody's attention. Isn't there also supposed to be an EMS vehicle and EMS support at each location?
I believe they need a Chief who is a trained firefighting professional but they cost money as well. Given what else I know, I think whoever is in the position of Fire Chief should be focused on the men and women that make up WC Fire/Rescue...and extracurricular activities should be put aside.
We are in complete agreement what's needed in the north end is going to require more money but again, the County hasn't even tried to apply for grants that would assist in the purchases nor have they even done incremental increases in taxes to offset those costs as discussed previously. Hell, they couldn't and wouldn't even come up with money for paint, chalking and vinyl until they were made to look like fools.
The BCC managed to ram a tax down our throats to expand the 331 bridge (yes it was needed) so folks could get to the goose that laid the golden egg and while it may not be popular to raise taxes, sometimes you have to do what's in the best interests of everyone's health and well being especially if BCC is charged (or taken it upon themselves) to ensure those services are available. Fire & Rescue being key among those things.
Beach Fanatic
When we responded with 2 people our Standard Operating Guidelines were to wajt for the appropriate personnel to arrive before making interior fire attack. As for ambulances they should/could be dispatched at same time as fire units.
Beach LoverAuthor
When we responded with 2 people our Standard Operating Guidelines were to wajt for the appropriate personnel to arrive before making interior fire attack. As for ambulances they should/could be dispatched at same time as fire units.
So let it burn and have people die until help arrives? Gotcha!
Beach LoverAuthor
This was reported by WZEP Jan. 3, 2017
NORTH WALTON FIRE/RESCUE AND WALTON COUNTY SHERIFF RESPONDING TO SOUTH WALTON & HOLMES COUNTY
South Walton and Holmes County requesting assistance from neighboring districts. North Walton Fire/Rescue and Walton County Sheriff responding, along with other agencies. Please be careful as all Emergency Resources are stretched thin.
NORTH WALTON FIRE/RESCUE AND WALTON COUNTY SHERIFF RESPONDING TO SOUTH WALTON & HOLMES COUNTY
South Walton and Holmes County requesting assistance from neighboring districts. North Walton Fire/Rescue and Walton County Sheriff responding, along with other agencies. Please be careful as all Emergency Resources are stretched thin.
Beach Fanatic
There are/were caveats, one of which when there was an opportunity to save a life you could make entry. I have been doing this jobt for over 28 years and when I started it was not unusual to fightfire with an Engine Couple. When I started in my current position over 22 years ago, it wasn't unusual to respond with 1 person on the truck with a total of 3 out of 2 stations. There are still departments that still do because of financial considerations. You just seem intent on not giving credit to positive steps even if they are small. My questions to you is, what do you want to see either via the County or the Sheriff? Can we agree that no matter who manages it that it will take money to do what you believe needs to be done?
Beach LoverAuthor
@Bob Wells wrote;
Obviously the County isn't doing a very good job or we wouldn't be having this conversation and Bobby Martin wouldn't be running all over the County with a video camera, making the County look a fool videoing all his "recent" good works that should have happened eons ago and I won't even mention the press who was at Station 12 just today, with video cameras rolling so Bobby could pat himself on the back. I wonder if they caught any children running around the station on camera?
Yes, we absolutely agree it takes money and obviously money management is not the Counties strong suit.
My questions to you is, what do you want to see either via the County or the Sheriff? Can we agree that no matter who manages it that it will take money to do what you believe needs to be done?
Obviously the County isn't doing a very good job or we wouldn't be having this conversation and Bobby Martin wouldn't be running all over the County with a video camera, making the County look a fool videoing all his "recent" good works that should have happened eons ago and I won't even mention the press who was at Station 12 just today, with video cameras rolling so Bobby could pat himself on the back. I wonder if they caught any children running around the station on camera?
Yes, we absolutely agree it takes money and obviously money management is not the Counties strong suit.
Beach LoverAuthor
From WMBB Today.
Renovations Proposed for Walton Co. Fire Rescue Stations
With two projects already underway, Walton County Fire Rescue could be updating the rest of their fire stations. Fire Chief Bobby Martin will present a complete list to the Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday of proposed renovations to nine of its locations.
At a cost of $46,000, the Freeport station is currently getting a major renovation.
"We sprayed the entire ceiling here, and what we're doing is building bedrooms back up in here," said Martin.
Martin said when Fire Rescue absorbed the building and its services in 2015, the county also inherited the issues within it which weren't identified until last year. That included a malfunctioning air conditioner and condensation building on the ceiling and insulation.
"In doing so at the same time, we decided to bring the crews from the EMS station also over here, so we're just making a total upstairs into a rebuild," said Martin.
Paxton's location will also receive upgrades once Freeport's are complete in a few months. But they may not be the only stations on the list.
"We just went to every station and started putting out what was needed to update them to what they need to be," said Martin.
Late last year, commissioners asked Martin to compile a list of all the upgrades needed - tallying in at $73,000.
"I think the discussion will be certainly where do we get that money, but also assessing on hierarchy of how do we position stuff as far as projects that need to completed," said Louis Svehla, the Public Information Manager for the county.
When looking at the list of proposals, Martin said a lot of the issues aren't serious.
"A lot of it is going to be cosmetic," said Martin. "I don't know of any that was caused by health issues. I think if it was continued to not be taken care of like this station here, it could have possibly turned into a health issue."
The county said it is feasible to pull additional funds from other accounts to complete those renovations, but the Board will have the final say.
This was triggered with a discussion about moving Walton County Fire Rescue under the jurisdiction of the Sheriff's Office. That is also on the agenda for Tuesday. Commissioners will give direction on the draft RFQ for the feasibility study.
www.mypanhandle.com/news/renovations-proposed-for-walton-co-fire-rescue-stations/637822794
Renovations Proposed for Walton Co. Fire Rescue Stations
With two projects already underway, Walton County Fire Rescue could be updating the rest of their fire stations. Fire Chief Bobby Martin will present a complete list to the Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday of proposed renovations to nine of its locations.
At a cost of $46,000, the Freeport station is currently getting a major renovation.
"We sprayed the entire ceiling here, and what we're doing is building bedrooms back up in here," said Martin.
Martin said when Fire Rescue absorbed the building and its services in 2015, the county also inherited the issues within it which weren't identified until last year. That included a malfunctioning air conditioner and condensation building on the ceiling and insulation.
"In doing so at the same time, we decided to bring the crews from the EMS station also over here, so we're just making a total upstairs into a rebuild," said Martin.
Paxton's location will also receive upgrades once Freeport's are complete in a few months. But they may not be the only stations on the list.
"We just went to every station and started putting out what was needed to update them to what they need to be," said Martin.
Late last year, commissioners asked Martin to compile a list of all the upgrades needed - tallying in at $73,000.
"I think the discussion will be certainly where do we get that money, but also assessing on hierarchy of how do we position stuff as far as projects that need to completed," said Louis Svehla, the Public Information Manager for the county.
When looking at the list of proposals, Martin said a lot of the issues aren't serious.
"A lot of it is going to be cosmetic," said Martin. "I don't know of any that was caused by health issues. I think if it was continued to not be taken care of like this station here, it could have possibly turned into a health issue."
The county said it is feasible to pull additional funds from other accounts to complete those renovations, but the Board will have the final say.
This was triggered with a discussion about moving Walton County Fire Rescue under the jurisdiction of the Sheriff's Office. That is also on the agenda for Tuesday. Commissioners will give direction on the draft RFQ for the feasibility study.
www.mypanhandle.com/news/renovations-proposed-for-walton-co-fire-rescue-stations/637822794
Beach Fanatic
@Bob Wells wrote;
Obviously the County isn't doing a very good job or we wouldn't be having this conversation and Bobby Martin wouldn't be running all over the County with a video camera, making the County look a fool videoing all his "recent" good works that should have happened eons ago and I won't even mention the press who was at Station 12 just today, with video cameras rolling so Bobby could pat himself on the back. I wonder if they caught any children running around the station on camera?
Yes, we absolutely agree it takes money and obviously money management is not the Counties strong suit.
So the current Fire Chief is making videos? That would be public record. Maybe we can get that posted here?
Beach Lover
Fixing every fire house in the county would cost less that defending Sara Comander for writing one e-mail in attempt to block someones civil rights. Not the payment, just her representation for her personal actions. Obviously Sara Comanders As* and pension were more important than firefighters as*. Same goes for Cecilia jones, she brings personal representation even when she isn't accused of anything and bills it to the county. Before you say every commissioner should have an attorney, know the county already has one defending the BCC as a whole, Cecilia brings hers just to feel better and then bills you for it. Oh, and that same attorney backs her and the SBA and Mr. Anderson. Convenient huh? Don't believe me, you are just one public records request from the truth.
Beach LoverAuthor
So the current Fire Chief is making videos? That would be public record. Maybe we can get that posted here?
The secret Committee Stan Sunday put together went around to the stations in question videoing "issues".
Bobby Martin was video'd live today on Channel 13 news. The video isn't available on their website yet but the article posted above was.
Beach LoverAuthor
Fixing every fire house in the county would cost less that defending Sara Comander for writing one e-mail in attempt to block someones civil rights. Not the payment, just her representation for her personal actions. Obviously Sara Comanders As* and pension were more important than firefighters as*. Same goes for Cecilia jones, she brings personal representation even when she isn't accused of anything and bills it to the county. Before you say every commissioner should have an attorney, know the county already has one defending the BCC as a whole, Cecilia brings hers just to feel better and then bills you for it. Oh, and that same attorney backs her and the SBA and Mr. Anderson. Convenient huh? Don't believe me, you are just one public records request from the truth.
That's a fact!
Beach LoverAuthor
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