Police and Fire Commission
Regular MeetingWest Allis, WI · August 15, 2019
Minutes
City of West Allis
Meeting Minutes
Police and Fire Commission
Thursday, August 15, 2019 6:00 PM West Allis Fire Department
7332 W. National Ave.
REGULAR AND CLOSED SESSION MEETING
A. CALL TO ORDER
Commissioner Kopplin called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm
B. ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners Amy Heron, Mark Manthei, Kimberly Cosby, Danielle Romain
and Kurt Kopplin
Also Present: Police Chief Pat Mitchell, Deputy Chief Robert Fletcher - Police
Department; Fire Chief Mason Pooler, Interim Deputy Chief Jason Schaak - Fire
Department; Bridget Morawetz, Recording Secretary
C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Commissioner Heron and seconded by Commissioner Romain to
approve the July 18, 2019 Regular and Closed Session Meeting Minutes as presented.
The motion carried by the following votes:
Aye: 5, Commissioners Heron, Manthei, Cosby, Romain and Kopplin
No: 0
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D. POLICE DEPARTMENT
1. Request for Approval: Increased pay upon hire for Police Officer candidates
Chief Mitchell stated that the most recent recruitment process for Police Officer
resulted in two candidates offered positions who are currently police officer’s in
Milwaukee and Village of West Milwaukee. He stated that both have been in their
positons for a number of years and are at a higher salary then what the first step
Police Officer would pay. Chief Mitchell noted that per the labor agreement with
the WAPPA, he is able to bring in experienced officers at a pay step other than the
beginning step if past experience justifies such an action.
Chief Mitchell requested the approval to offer both candidates above the step one
police officer pay in accordance with their past experience, education and number
of years on the job at their current, respective departments.
A motion was made by Commissioner Heron and seconded by Commissioner
Manthei to approve the request and presented by Chief Mitchell.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5, Commissioners Heron, Manthei, Cosby, Romain and Kopplin
No: 0
2. Police Department Financial Report
Chief Mitchell was comfortable with the current status of the department’s budget.
He reminded the Commissioners that November and December will show in
increase in the OT budget as personnel usually request any OT on the books to
be paid out during that timeframe.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
3. Monthly Performance Report
Chief Mitchell stated that the C.A.R.T program grant money will expire at the end
of the year and he is hopeful that the program will again be funded. Chief Mitchell
noted that he has included the C.A.R.T position as part of the department’s 2020
budget in case the funding is terminated.
Chief Mitchell stated that two of the department’s Detectives attended a
week-long course provided by the DEA Academy to become familiar with and
understand the ins/outs of Meth labs. Chief Mitchell stated that this was a free
course offered by the DEA Department of Training and very worthwhile to attend.
Lastly, Chief Mitchell stated that the efforts to curb the cruising issue on Hwy 100
have been successful and to date, he has not received an email or phone call from
a concerned citizen or elected official. He noted that Wisconsin State Patrol has
been a great partner in this endeavor and their presence on a Friday or Saturday
night, in conjunction with the 2nd shift patrol division, has been effective.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
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4. Patrol Activity Report
Chief Mitchell stated that the department recently added three more bikes for the
patrol division, bringing the total to six patrol bikes available for use. Chief
Mitchell noted currently the department has seven officers trained for bike patrol
and are deployed based on staffing and weather conditions. He noted that the
bike patrol will continue until the end of September.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
5. Communications Activity Report
Chief Mitchell did not speak to any items included in this report.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
6. Community Services Bureau Report
Chief Mitchell stated that the 2019 National Night Out at the Farmer’s Market was
a success, noting that approximately 3000 people attended the four-hour event.
Chief Mitchell stated that the department is currently recruiting for two part-time
dispatchers.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
7. Criminal Investigations Unit Activity Report
Chief Mitchell stated that after several months of investigation and under-cover
work, the department was able to gather enough evidence to close a business
located on Greenfield Avenue for engaging in prostitution activities. Chief
Mitchell stated this case has now been referred to the Milwaukee County DA’s
office and charges are pending for employees of the business as well as the
business owner.
Chief Mitchell stated that this bureau recently participated in Operation
Independence Day, which is a nation-wide initiative targeting those involved in
the sexual exploitation of children and human trafficking. He stated that although
the operation resulted in several arrests for prostitution and drug related offenses,
all suspects were adults and no evidence of human trafficking was found.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or comments and the report was
placed on file.
8. Tavern Violation Report
Chief Mitchell did not speak to any items included in this report.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
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9. Training Report
Commissioner Heron asked about the status of the training house and Chief
Mitchell stated that it now has shingles and door locks and was very close to
completion. Chief Mitchell anticipates that it will be ready for a tour by the
Commissioners during the November meeting.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
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E. FIRE DEPARTMENT
10. Operations Division Report
Chief Pooler stated that both fires included in this report were results of some form
of faulty electrical issue. He stated that the fire on 69th Street was attributed to
faulty electrical wiring associated with an inflatable bed that was being used by
the occupant and the second fire was the result of an electrical issue associated
with a window air conditioner. Both fires caused serious damage to the properties
but no civilian injuries occurred. Chief Pooler noted that a firefighter suffered a
knee injury in conjunction with the fire on 69th Street and is currently on light
duty at fire admin.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or comments and the report was
placed on file.
11. EMS Bureau Report
Chief Pooler spoke to the narrative included in the EMS Bureau report. He stated
that after the crew on duty arrived on scene, it was determined that the patient
would be better served if put in contact with the MIH bureau. Chief Pooler stated
that in the meantime, food was ordered for the patient and upon MIH arrival, the
patient was provided with phone numbers and safe living places to contact.
Commissioner Heron asked about the use of TPA clot buster medication and if it is
used on scene for stroke patients. Chief Pooler stated that it had been used years
ago, but it stated that the use has been discontinued in the field as it cannot be
determined what type of stroke a person is experiencing. He stated that once a
patient has arrived at the hospital for an appropriate CAT scan it is then
determined if this medication will be administered.
The Commissioners has no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
12. National Q Dispatch Performance Report
The Commissioners had no additional questions or comments and the report was
placed on file.
13. Training Bureau Report
Chief Pooler stated that training for the month of July focused on preparation for
Wisconsin State Fair and in particular, reviewed the guidelines and participated in
Sky Glider training and rescue exercises. Additionally Chief Pooler stated that
crews worked jointly with West Allis Police on an active shooter training exercise
at Lane Intermediate School.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or comments and the report was
placed on file.
14. Request for Approval: (3) Probationary Firefighters placed on the permanent
roster
Chief Pooler requested the approval of the below probationary firefighters to be
placed on the permanent roster. He stated that all three have successfully
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completed their probationary training requirements and have proven to be
excellent additions to the fire department.
Ø Anthony Bilderback
Ø Justin Kutella
Ø Zachery Price
A motion was made by Commissioner Manthei and seconded by Commissioner
Heron to approve the request as presented by Chief Pooler.
The motion carried by the following votes:
Aye: 5, Commissioners Heron, Manthei, Cosby, Romain and Kopplin
No: 0
15. Community Risk Reduction/Support Services Division Report
Interim Deputy Chief Jason Schaak discussed the Pulse Point app stating that
residents are notified within a six block area if an individual is in need of CPR
assistance. He said that notifications are sent if assistance is needed in a public
area but not to private residences or other locations that are not public areas.
I/DC Schaak noted that data information is collected on a voluntary basis via a
survey that is sent to individuals if they respond to a Pulse Point call.
I/DC Schaak stated that all interviews for the Fleet Manager position have been
completed and an offer was extended to the top candidate, Jeremiah Behrs. I/DC
Schaak stated that Jeremiah has 10 years of tractor trailer and heavy machinery
maintenance experience and indicated that his involvement in specking the new
engine in 2020 will be a major component of his job duties.
I/DC Schaak then reviewed some of the benchmarks included in the Community
Risk Reduction report.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or comments and the report was
placed on file.
16. Fire Prevention Bureau Report
I/DC Schaak stated that the increase in 2018 vs 2019 annual inspections was the
result of a tax fee restructure for Condos and noted that there was not an actual
increase in the number of inspections.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
17. Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) Bureau Report
I/DC Schaak reviewed a potential partnership with MIH and Sinai Hospital after
completion of a pilot program. I/DC Schaak indicated that the test period and
results were well received and further conversation regarding the MIH program
and benefits are ongoing.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
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18. Fire Department Financial Report
I/DC Schaak stated that the OT budget line will show an increase at the September
PFC meeting due to staffing requirements for the 2019 Wisconsin State Fair event.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was
placed on file.
19. Sick, Injured and Light Duty Report
The Commissioners had no additional questions or comments and the report was
placed on file.
20. Master Plan Performance Snapshot
The Commissioners had no additional questions or comments and the report was
placed on file.
21. Discussion: 2019-2024 Fire Department Strategic Plan
Discussion ensued between Chief Pooler and the Commissioners regarding the
Strategic Plan as presented by Chief Pooler. Commissioners stated that they felt it
was really thought out and were appreciative of the amount of work and effort that
is required to create such a plan.
Commissioners questioned the indication of negativity as it relates to EMS
services within the department and Chief Pooler stated that the perception of
being a firefighter is, it’s all about fires, but in reality, much of a firefighter’s duties
encompass EMS type calls vs. actual fire calls. Chief Pooler stated that one of the
many goals of the intern program will be to educate potential recruits on the
expectation of high volume EMS calls over fire calls.
The Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns regarding the
Strategic Plan information as presented by Chief Pooler.
22. Communication: Retirement of Firefighter/Fire Inspector
Chief Pooler stated that Firefighter/Fire Inspector Michael Gundersen will retire
from the department after 30 years of service effective 0800 hours on August 26,
2019.
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F. POLICE AND FIRE COMMISSION
23. Introduction of Commissioner Kimberly Cosby
Kurt Kopplin introduced newly appointed Commissioner Kimberly Cosby to the
board and Chief’s.
24. PFC Financial Report
Commissioners had no additional questions or concerns and the report was placed
on file.
25. Closed Session: Review and discuss the 2019-2020 performance goals for the Fire
Chief
G. CLOSED SESSION
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners of the City
of West Allis will, upon conclusion of open session, consider and vote on a motion to
convene in closed session at said time and place to review and discuss the 2019-2020
Performance Goals for the Fire Chief and to take such further action as may be
necessary and appropriate in these matters.
A closed session for the above purpose is authorized pursuant to the provision of
Section 19.85 (1)(c) of the Wis. Stats., which authorizes a governmental body, upon
motion duly made and carried, to convene in closed session for the purpose of
considering employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data of
any public employee over which the governmental body has jurisdiction or exercises
responsibility
Immediately upon completion of the closed session, the Board of Police and Fire
Commission will reconvene in open session at said time and place to consider any
other matters on the agenda.
On motion made and seconded, the meeting convened into Closed Session at 7:24 pm.
Closed session agenda item discussed
On a motion made and seconded, the meeting reconvened into open session at 7:47 pm
H. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, on a motion made and seconded, the meeting adjourned
at 7:48 pm.
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All meetings of the {bdName} are public meetings. In order for the general public to make comments at the committee meetings, the
individual(s) must be scheduled (as an appearance) with the chair of the committee or the appropriate staff contact; otherwise, the meeting of
the committee is a working session for the committee itself, and discussion by those in attendance is limited to committee members, the mayor,
other alderpersons, staff and others that may be a party to the matter being discussed.
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
The City of West Allis does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, religion, age, marital or veterans' status, sex,
national origin, disability or any other legally protected status in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services,
programs or activities.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT NOTICE
Upon reasonable notice the City will furnish appropriate auxiliary aids and services when necessary to afford individuals with disabilities an equal
opportunity to participate in and to enjoy the benefits of a service, program or activity provided by the City.
LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY STATEMENT
It is the policy of the City of West Allis to provide language access services to populations of persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP)
who are eligible to be served or likely to be directly affected by our programs. Such services will be focused on providing meaningful access to our
programs, services and/or benefits.
City of West Allis Page 9 Printed on 9/23/2019
Agenda
City of West Allis
Meeting Agenda
Police and Fire Commission
Thursday, August 15, 2019 6:00 PM West Allis Fire Department
7332 W. National Ave.
REGULAR AND CLOSED SESSION MEETING
A. CALL TO ORDER
B. ROLL CALL
C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Approval of the July 18, 2019 Regular and Closed Session Meeting Minutes
D. POLICE DEPARTMENT
1. Request for Approval: Increased pay upon hire for Police Officer candidates
2. Police Department Financial Report
3. Monthly Performance Report
4. Patrol Activity Report
5. Communications Activity Report
6. Community Services Bureau Report
7. Criminal Investigations Unit Activity Report
8. Tavern Violation Report
9. Training Report
E. FIRE DEPARTMENT
10. Operations Division Report
11. EMS Bureau Report
12. National Q Dispatch Performance Report
13. Training Bureau Report
14. Request for Approval: (3) Probationary Firefighters placed on the permanent roster
15. Community Risk Reduction/Support Services Division Report
16. Fire Prevention Bureau Report
17. Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) Bureau Report
18. Fire Department Financial Report
19. Sick, Injured and Light Duty Report
20. Master Plan Performance Snapshot
21. Discussion: 2019-2024 Fire Department Strategic Plan
22. Communication: Retirement of Firefighter/Fire Inspector
F. POLICE AND FIRE COMMISSION
23. Introduction of Commissioner Kimberly Cosby
24. PFC Financial Report
25. Closed Session: Review and discuss the 2019-2020 performance goals for the Fire Chief
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Police and Fire Commission Meeting Agenda August 15, 2019
G. CLOSED SESSION
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners of the City of West Allis
will, upon conclusion of open session, consider and vote on a motion to convene in closed session
at said time and place to review and discuss the 2019-2020 Performance Goals for the Fire Chief
and to take such further action as may be necessary and appropriate in these matters.
A closed session for the above purpose is authorized pursuant to the provision of Section 19.85
(1)(c) of the Wis. Stats., which authorizes a governmental body, upon motion duly made and
carried, to convene in closed session for the purpose of considering employment, promotion,
compensation or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the
governmental body has jurisdiction or exercises responsibility
Immediately upon completion of the closed session, the Board of Police and Fire Commission will
reconvene in open session at said time and place to consider any other matters on the agenda.
H. ADJOURNMENT
All meetings of the Police and Fire Commission are public meetings. In order for the general public to make comments at the committee
meetings, the individual(s) must be scheduled (as an appearance) with the chair of the committee or the appropriate staff contact; otherwise,
the meeting of the committee is a working session for the committee itself, and discussion by those in attendance is limited to committee
members, the mayor, other alderpersons, staff and others that may be a party to the matter being discussed.
NOTICE OF POSSIBLE QUOROM
It is possible that members of, and possibly a quorum of, members of other governmental bodies of the municipality may be in attendance at the
above-stated meeting to gather information. No action will be taken by any governmental body at the above -stated meeting other than the
governmental body specifically referred to above in this notice.
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
The City of West Allis does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, religion, age, marital or veterans' status, sex,
national origin, disability or any other legally protected status in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services,
programs or activities.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT NOTICE
Upon reasonable notice the City will furnish appropriate auxiliary aids and services when necessary to afford individuals with disabilities an equal
opportunity to participate in and to enjoy the benefits of a service, program or activity provided by the City.
LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY STATEMENT
It is the policy of the City of West Allis to provide language access services to populations of persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP)
who are eligible to be served or likely to be directly affected by our programs. Such services will be focused on providing meaningful access to
our programs, services and/or benefits.
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