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Councilmember Ruhland stated that with these staffing changes we can demonstrate to <br />neighboring communities what the Lino Lakes Fire Department can provide for services <br />and possible contracts. <br />Mayor Rafferty stated that the SAFER grant is a three-year grant. He also noted that one <br />neighboring community is in contract discussions with another department for a three- <br />year contract. <br />Councilmember Cavegn asked what happens with the grant if we do not fill the <br />positions. <br />The Fire Chief stated that the city will have 180 days to fill the positions once the grant is <br />awarded, however, they will work with the city if additional time is needed. <br />Mayor Rafferty asked what if the city turned down the grant following an award. <br />The Fire Chief stated that turning down a grant award would count against the city for <br />any future grant applications. <br />Councilmember Stoesz stated that he would like to see budget numbers for six years, <br />with and without the SAFER grant. <br />Councilmember Ruhland agreed he would like to review the budget with and without <br />the SAFER grant. <br />Mayor Rafferty re -stated that he is not comfortable with the SAFER grant as written. He <br />stated that he cannot see how the city can afford the personnel costs following the <br />expiration of the grant. He reviewed the options for supporting the current Duty Crew <br />and the staffing options. <br />Mayor Rafferty stated that regarding agenda Item 5B Approving Renovations at Fire <br />Station 1 & 2; to provide for overnight accommodations for the staff hired under the <br />SAFER grant, he does not support the renovations. <br />Mayor Rafferty stated that regarding agenda Item 5C directing staff to research <br />alternative apparatus and evaluate additional equipment and gear needed, he believes <br />the apparatus discussion can be handled with the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), 2026 <br />budget discussions. <br />Councilmember Ruhland asked if we would qualify for a SAFER grant if we applied for <br />just one or two positions. <br />Mayor Rafferty stated that applying for one or two positions now could buy the city <br />some time. <br />Page 3 of 4 <br />Page 20 of 142 <br />