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Mr. Hoeke noted that rescue related expenditures are budgeted for a year from now; the goal is to have Ramsey's Fire Department self-sufficient by the time the two year contracts expire with Anoka and Elk river. Mr. Hoeke did note that on a priority basis, he would have to choose the extraction equipment before the rescue vehicle. A discussion ensued regarding those items on the budget that could be reduced or deleted. Mr. Hartley and Mr. Bawden agreed that outfitting the fire Department for rescue operations in 1990 is premature and from an economics standpoint, it would be better to continue to contract with Anoka for rescue operations. Mr. Cich agreed that the Fire Department has a full agenda and that rescue training and equipment should be addressed on another year's budget. Mr. Spence and Mr. LaTour expressed concern for the ability of Ramsey's Fire Department to administer immediate help to a victim versus waiting for the Anoka Department to arrive; the money saved in eliminating a contract with Anoka altogether should offset the cost of extraction equipment. By a 4 to 3 majority, the consensus of the Board was to not include the purchase of rescue equipment in the 1990 budget. After more review and adjustments, the budget amount was reduced by abo,ut $50,000 for 1989, Mr. Hartley then referred to the Fireman's Relief Fund budget item, and provided the Board with a copy of the State Statute establishing rules for the operation of the fund. Mr. Hartley noted that whatever level of benefit is established, it is the City's responsibility to see that the revenue necessary to support the fund is there, even if it means levying taxes. Mr. Cich stated that the establishment of a benefit level and funding source for the Fireman's Relief Fund should be a discussion and decision of the City Council. Mr. Hoeke noted that the major source of funding for the Relief Fund is the 2% surcharge cities with fire departments receive from insurance premiums paid within the city; very few cities contribute public dollars into the Fund. The consensus was that the issue of the Ramsey Relief Fund should be placed on a City Council agenda for discussion of level of benefit and funding source and that the City Attorney should draft a contract regarding the same. Mr. Hartley commented that he did not feel the Ramsey Relief Fund for firefighters should go into effect until the contracts with Anoka and Elk River have expired to avoid a situation of property owners paying a double surcharge. Fire Board/August 23, 1989 Page 2 of 3