Highwood may supplement manning with contract personnel

Excerpts from ChicagoTribune.com:

The city of Highwood is considering outsourcing some firefighting and paramedic services to a private company in order to meet staffing requirements for its fire-insurance rating. This move comes as the city looks to maintain its current level of service while managing costs and resources more effectively.

City Manager Scott Coren explained that the Highwood Fire Department needs at least four personnel on duty at all times to keep its rating from the Insurance Services Office (ISO). This staffing requirement is also outlined in the department’s collective bargaining agreement with the local fire union, which is part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).

Highwood currently has an automatic-aid agreement with nearby departments such as Highland Park and Lake Forest, meaning they can assist each other in emergencies. In return, Highwood’s firefighters may be called upon to help those departments when needed.

On April 8, the Highwood City Council narrowly approved a resolution, voting 4-3 to begin negotiations with Kurtz Paramedic Services or another provider. The goal is to bring in supplemental full-time firefighters and paramedics to ensure the department meets its minimum staffing requirements. Currently, the department has four full-time non-probationary firefighters/paramedics, with a fifth in their probationary period. Part-time staff also support operations.

The council’s decision triggered a 30-day waiting period as required by the fire union contract. If everything goes smoothly, an agreement could be finalized as early as mid-May.

According to Coren, there are no plans to lay off any of the current full-time, non-probationary firefighters if the city moves forward with a private contract. Instead, the city aims to supplement its workforce without compromising existing roles.

Kurtz Paramedic Services, led by CEO Tom Vana, employs over 750 firefighters and paramedics across 26 municipalities and fire protection districts. Their clients include cities like Wheaton, Bensenville, and Tinley Park, as well as districts in South Chicago Heights and Frankfort.

Vana told the council that the average experience of his employees is just under 15 years. If the company wins the contract, it would offer preferential hiring to Highwood’s current staff, unless those employees choose to work elsewhere.

Fire Battalion Chief David Mohry voiced concerns during the council meeting, questioning how even a small number of private employees might affect the department’s culture and stability. He also raised questions about potential turnover and the long-term impact on morale and operational efficiency.

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