The council deliberated on Resolution 260227, which was necessary to officially permit part-time firefighters to join the pension fund. This inclusion is noteworthy because the pension plan typically caters to full-time employees, necessitating a resolution to extend its benefits to part-time personnel. During the discussions, it was highlighted that the paid-on-call staff had a fire relief association with specific participation requirements not applicable to part-time workers due to their flexible schedules. Although contributions to the pension fund by part-time employees would not be substantial, they would provide financial security for those with prior pensions from other fire or police services.

Questions arose regarding the obligations of part-time employees, particularly concerning hours worked and call responses. It was clarified that part-time employees would be scheduled for specific hours and could only respond to calls during those times, potentially involving fire inspections or public education activities. The council emphasized that part-time employees would not face minimum call response requirements. A comparison between the pension benefits of the Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) system and the fire relief association was drawn, revealing distinct systems with differing requirements and payout structures. The discussion ended with the council passing the resolution, allowing part-time firefighters to be recognized under the pension fund.

The council also discussed updates on the Q2025 Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) system. A pilot study for the Flock safety camera system is underway for a year-long trial. Despite cumbersome data-sharing agreements with various agencies, the city is working to streamline these processes. Chief Power assured the council that no federal agency data requests had been made, addressing privacy concerns. There was an inquiry about the effectiveness of black license plates in capturing images, with Chief Power noting the need for technology adaptation to recognize various plate designs.

The meeting further included discussions on the fire department’s performance for Q4 2025. The department faced challenges in maintaining response goals for structure fires, meeting only 25% of the targets, while medical responses saw over 99% success in having two or more responders. Equipment concerns were highlighted, particularly an aging ladder truck in service for nearly 26 years, prompting the need for further discussions in an upcoming work session. Declining active firefighter numbers were acknowledged, with expectations for growth in 2026.

The council also addressed new business, including the authorization to purchase park amenity master list signage. The park advisory commission proposed signs with QR codes to increase public engagement with the city’s 18 parks. The council supported the initiative, recognizing the value of making park amenities more accessible. Concerns about QR code misuse were noted, with suggestions for regular inspections to detect tampering.

Additionally, the council considered a resolution for purchasing a 2027 Western Star truck chassis and outfitting equipment, totaling $328,938. The asset being replaced had served for 15 years, with the acquisition expedited through state bid contracts. Discussions highlighted funding sources, with $175,000 from the sewer fund as an inter-fund loan and another $175,000 from the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The council agreed to amend the resolution to reflect both funding sources.