05-28-08 Council Workshop Minutes

Home Browse Search

MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MAY 28, 2008 explained the call response system in place for freeway calls during the Unweave the Weave project, in which both Little Canada and Vadnais Heights respond to all freeway calls regardless of which city they are in. Smiley noted that the freeway project has eliminated several turn-around points for the Fire Department, which results in increased response time. Allan asked about "Rescue & Emergency Medical Service Incident" versus "Fire" calls. Smiley commented that the Little Canada Fire Department does not respond to medical calls. The Department has responded to some car accidents as well as has provided CPR assistance and assisted Allina Ambulance Service in moving large individuals. Blesener asked if Vadnais Heights provided first responder services. Smiley indicated that Vadnais responds to all medicals. It was noted that dispatchers will first send the Sheriff s Department and then Allina to medical calls. Steve Morelan asked how many times the Little Canada Fire Department was called by Allina for assistance. Smiley estimated 10 to 15 times in 2007. Eight fire fighters are sent out on a buck for these calls. Estimated cost to respond to each of these calls is $250. Montour asked if the Department knew the reason for the increase in call numbers, suggesting additional housing units and/or aging housing stock. Smiley felt there were a number of reasons for the increase in calls, and it was pointed out that there are many calls coming from the Montreal Courts Apartment complex. Jim Morelan stated that there has been an increase in the number of alarm calls over the past several years which he attributed to more businesses and homes having alarm systems. It was also noted that it is typical to get 10 or I 1 fire fighters to respond to daytime calls. It was also pointed out that Little Canada provides and receives mutual aid assistance to neighboring departments as necessary. AMBULENCE The Department and Council discussed ambulance services, provided by SERVICES Allina. Jim Morelan indicated that the Little Canada Fire Department has never taken the stand that it wants to provide ambulance service to the community, but there have been discussions on providing the fire station as a location for Allina. Smiley indicated that Allina is housed in the Vadnais Heights fire station as well as has a main location in Arden Hills. He noted, however, that Little Canada is at the southern and eastern end of Allina's service area; therefore, Allina may not be interested in a Little Canada location.