HomeMy WebLinkAboutDTS-08-054 - Corporate Involvement with Regional EMS Working Groups~R ..~.
Developmen~&
Technical Services
Report To: Chairperon Christina Weylie and Mebers of the Development
and Technical Services Committee
Date of Meeting: April 21, 2008
Submitted By: Tim Beckett, Fire Chief
Prepared By: Tim Beckett, Fire Chief (x2926)
Wards} Involved: All
Date of Report: April 3, 2008
Report No.: 08-054
Subject: CORPORATE INVOLVEMENT WITH REGIONAL EMS
WORKING GROUPS
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Fire Chief participates on the Traffic Signal Pre-Emption working group; and further,
That the Fire Chief and a representative from Human Resources participate on the Dispatch
Model Review working group; and further,
That the Fire Chief provides regular updates to Corporate Management Team and Council on
the status of the projects.
BACKGROUND:
On March 4, 2008 Regional Council, as part of the EMS Master Plan, approved the
recommendation for the composition and terms of reference for Traffic Signal Pre-Emption
(Opticom) and Dispatch Model Review working groups.
The approval identifies that the Fire Chief for the City of Kitchener sit on both Regional working
groups and that a Human Resources representative sit on the Dispatch Model Review working
group.
REPORT:
The Purpose of the Traffic Signal Pre-Emption working group is to allow coordination and input
from stakeholders as part of a program to enhance the Regions pre-emption infrastructure and
operation.
The Fire Department already uses the pre-emption and the City has provided the current
infrastructure. Regional EMS is looking to utilize this infrastructure and technology to assist with
response times. As part of the mandate, stakeholders would be able to provide input regarding
signal operations, selection of controlled intersections, systems ownership and cost sharing
opportunities.
The purpose of the dispatch model review working group is to evaluate a full range of
emergency services dispatch delivery options for the Region of Waterloo. The working group
would develop terms of references for a consulting assignment and guide and direct the work of
the consultant.
Currently there are four separate dispatch centres; Regional Police; EMS, through a Provincial
Centre; Kitchener Fire and Cambridge Fire. All centres are responsible for their individual
agency emergency response communications. Although individual, the four centres work
together often to provide for the citizens of the Region. This working group will examine various
options and opportunities including status quo.
Although we have participation on the working groups, it would still require Council's mandate to
participate in any further implementation process. Further reports to Council will be required.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
There are no financial implications for participation on the working groups.
COMMUNICATIONS: none
CONCLUSION:
Because any decisions these working groups make may have an impact on the Corporation, it
is imperative that we have representation on these working groups. It is recommended the Fire
Chief and a member of Human Resources sit on the various committees, and that timely reports
and updates be provided back to both CMT and Council for further input and decision.
Tim Beckett
Fire Chief