July 6, 2015 - The Mariposa Grand Jury 2014-2015 Final Report included an investigation into the Mariposa County Fire Department.

INTRODUCTION

The Grand Jury was interested in the cause of the turn-over of Mariposa County Fire Chiefs and concerned about underlying problems which might compromise the effectiveness of the Fire Department.

METHODOLOGY

We interviewed paid Mariposa County Fire Department Staff and County volunteers, including the interim Fire Chief, Battalion Chief, Captains, Office of Emergency Services personnel and Mariposa Public Utility District (MPUD) Fire personnel.

INVESTIGATION

Our interviews with staff and volunteers were directed to understand circumstances within the Department which effect readiness, functionality, efficiency and the underlying root of problems which resulted in the resignation of the most recent chief and the high turn-over of chiefs in general. We were also interested in the structural and working relationships between the different units within the Mariposa Fire Department, MPUD Fire and Cal-Fire.

FINDINGS

Our interviews uncovered multiple issues which contributed to the resignation of the former Fire Chief and designation of an interim chief. Disrespect for the former Fire Chief was apparent at all levels within the Department and was largely based on the feeling that he didn't know how to run a county fire department as opposed to a city fire department. Different staff members had a variety of opinions related to the plans they thought the Chief had proposed for the Department, indicating he either had a problem communicating or planning. Many upper management members of the Fire Department did not want to make changes in the way the Department was run. These factors resulted in Department Staff writing a letter to the Board of Supervisors requesting the removal of the Fire Chief. The Board of Supervisors requested his resignation.

Apart from conflicts between the former Fire Chief and staff there were several other problems within the Department which remained unresolved. Conflicts between staff at the Battalion Chief and Captain level has been a long term problem in the Department. The working relationship between Mariposa County Fire Department and Cal-Fire needs improvement.

Background checks were not being conducted on volunteers. Further the Department has not updated Standard Operating Procedures or policy books. There are also pay issues resulting from mismanagement or lack of communication regarding the pay voucher system.

The Interim Fire Chief has developed and enacted a plan to resolve conflicts and make the Department more effective. Re-organization of County Fire includes: chain of command, an improved training regimen and certification, and updating policies and procedures. Further improvements include streamlined pay management and conducting background checks for volunteers. The Interim Fire Chief has also begun to improve cooperation with Cal-Fire and a work and training relationship is being developed.

MPUD Fire will not be part of the re-organization as they are a separate entity and it would cost money rather than save money to fold them into County Fire.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Support the Interim Fire Chief as he continues to re- organize the County Fire Department.

2. Mandate periodic physical examinations and physical fitness certification as recommended by the County Health Officer.


RESPONSES

We require the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors respond to all findings and recommendations.
Source: Mariposa Grand Jury 2014-2015 Final Report