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April 22, 2025 St. Anthony Council Work Session - 5 <br /> <br /> <br />Fire Chief Diaz provided a story about Courage and asked the Council to help him to build a safety net <br />for the firefighters. <br /> <br />Councilmember Jenson noted in Deputy Chief Jaros’ presentation, she talked about adding 2 firefighters, <br />and in Fire Chief Diaz’ presentation, he talked about adding 6 firefighters. Fire Chief Diaz stated it would <br />be 2 positions for each shift for a total of 6 positions. Deputy Chief Jaros noted they are asking for 2 <br />more per shift. <br /> <br />Mayor Webster noted the headcount would be doubled over a 5-year period. <br /> <br />Councilmember Jenson asked if the paid on-call number would decrease and Fire Chief Diaz stated they <br />would keep that number to 10. <br /> <br />Mayor Webster stated that every City is facing the challenge of demographics. Minnesota in 2035 is <br />when we are predicted to have the people 65 and older and 18 and younger match. It will be difficult for <br />all departments to hire paid-on-call firefighters. We will need to rely more on full-time firefighters. <br /> <br />Councilmember Doolan noted it is helpful to understand the services the City is receiving. She asked if a <br />comparison could be made with other service providers. She asked long-term, is there an opportunity if <br />staff is increased to provide a better circle of services. <br /> <br />Councilmember Elnagdy asked about the mutual aid agreement. There may be times when mutual aid <br />cannot be provided. <br /> <br />Mayor Webster noted that the health outcomes for residents are very high in St. Anthony. Fire Chief <br />Diaz stated that within Hennepin County, St. Anthony is the only Department that provides ALS. <br /> <br />Mayor Webster stated it would be helpful for the Council when working to determine next year’s levy, <br />the 3 additional staff should be considered. Mr. Yunker stated in July, this will be included when <br />discussing the levy for 2026. Mayor Webster thanked them for their leadership and all the firefighters. <br /> <br />Future Agenda Items: <br /> <br />The next Work Session Meeting will be held on May 24, 2025. <br /> <br />Adjournment: <br /> <br />The meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m. <br />7