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staff to watch the parks for activity level and social distancing and the Council can continue the <br /> discussion if problems arise or recommendations change. <br /> Councilmember Heinrich stated that she agrees with Mayor LeTourneau that the issue should be <br /> monitored as this is a rapidly changing issue. She noted that staff can provide updates to the <br /> Council for additional discussion if necessary. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich noted that the signs will be revised as directed and posted at the <br /> playgrounds. <br /> Fire Chief Kohner provided details on the duty shifts being implemented by the Fire Department <br /> during this time. He stated that social distancing continues to be stressed with more people <br /> staying home. He provided details on the calls received, noting that two people can adequately <br /> respond to a medical call. He explained that when more firefighters are at home and able to <br /> respond to calls, that could increase the costs and would not maintain social distancing. He <br /> stated that instilling the temporary duty crew would provide social distancing and would almost <br /> be budget neutral, or a cost savings, depending on the number of firefighters that would <br /> otherwise respond during this time. He noted that the duty crew would also ensure prompt <br /> response to calls. <br /> Councilmember Riley stated that it seems that this would make sense during this time. He asked <br /> if this would be a permanent decision to instill a duty crew. <br /> Fire Chief Kohner replied that there have been discussions during strategic planning on the use <br /> of a duty crew. He stated that this has come into place sooner because of the COVID-19 <br /> circumstances and therefore this would be for the temporary situation. He stated that he has <br /> provided comparison information on the duty crew versus the 30 percent response rate, as well as <br /> comparisons of response times. He stated that he would like to see how the next two weeks play <br /> out and will then bring a comparison back to the Council to review. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich commented that this is a great opportunity to test this method as a pilot <br /> during a time when it most makes sense. <br /> Councilmember Menth stated that he likes this plan as it decreases the response time and <br /> implements social distancing. He stated that the situation continues to change rapidly, and this <br /> will allow the City to better respond. <br /> Councilmember Kuzma stated that if the pilot project works, would the duty crew be a benefit to <br /> the residents moving forward from an insurance standpoint because of the reduced response <br /> times. <br /> Fire Chief Kohner stated that the response times are a part of the ISO rating, but was unsure if <br /> the insurance rates of residents would change. <br /> Councilmember Heinrich expressed appreciation to Fire Chief Kohner for bringing this idea <br /> forward and was hopeful that this would provide a cost savings and reduced response time. <br /> City Council/March 30, 2020 <br /> Page 7 of 9 <br />