The Frankfort Fire Protection District is taking steps to address its equipment needs by pursuing the purchase of two used fire engines for a total of $635,000, a move designed to save money and avoid long waits for new apparatus. The board also heard a presentation from a consulting firm about a potential community outreach campaign to prepare for a future referendum. For more details on these developments, see our full news stories.

In other business at its June 17 meeting, the board approved an updated sick leave policy for its non-union staff to align with the firefighters’ contract. Trustees also authorized bill payments totaling $237,381.02 from the Fire Service and Ambulance Funds.

Cardiac Monitor Lease Program Reviewed
Interim Fire Chief Paul Kinsella and FF/EMT Jason Vaccaro provided an update on the “Zoll One Program,” a ten-year lease for new cardiac monitors. The district needs to replace at least two of its eight current monitors. The program offers an annual trade-in process, an option to upgrade within five years, and a $1 buyout at the end of the lease. The district’s accountant reportedly considers it a better deal than an outright purchase, but no action was taken.

Personnel Update: Vacancies and New Hires
Chief Kinsella reported that one firefighter sustained a shoulder injury and was getting an MRI. He added that the district’s new hires are doing well. A long-term injured member is expected to go on pension soon, which will create two vacancies. To prepare for future staffing, the Lieutenant Eligibility List is scheduled to be posted by the end of October.

Technology Upgrades on Horizon
The district is preparing for several technology changes. Will County 911 is rolling out a new CAD update, and the district may need new radios. Additionally, the department must address its Mobile Data Terminals, as the “Windows 10” operating system is coming to its end of life in October.

Re-chassis Ambulance Nearing Completion
The district’s re-chassis ambulance is anticipated to be back “in-service” by the end of July, according to a report from the Mobile Equipment committee.

Praise for Firefighters in Cardiac Arrest Call
LT. Brian Adcock used the public comment portion of the meeting to praise the district’s firefighters for their performance during a cardiac arrest call the previous day. Adcock stated the members were “awesome.”