From excerpts of the Chicago Tribune online:
The village of Lake Zurich is closely examining its fire department's organizational structure and operational processes, aiming for greater efficiency. Joe Pozzo, a project manager with the ICMA-CPSM, presented the findings of an operational analysis conducted at the Village Board meeting on February 17th. The report aimed to provide an unbiased review of the services offered by the Lake Zurich Fire Rescue Department.
Pozzo noted that the department already operates efficiently, stating, "You have a very good fire department, and I don’t say that every time I present." The village has been contemplating a review of both its police and fire departments over the last few years to explore potential improvements in efficiency.
From 2010 to 2014, constrained financial resources led to a reduction of 19 full-time positions within the village. This prompted officials to consider whether the fire and police departments required similar adjustments. To save costs, the decision was made to analyze only the fire department, while Police Chief Steve Husak reviewed the police department independently. The fire department analysis cost the village $50,000.
Beyond reviewing staffing levels, the CPSM examined how the fire department manages and compensates overtime for operational staff. It was found that the department may be paying employees time-and-a-half more frequently than permitted under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Under the current schedule, the fire department averages a 56-hour workweek, or up to 216 hours in a 27-day cycle. According to FLSA, firefighters should not exceed 53 hours, or 204 hours in a 27-day cycle, without receiving overtime pay.
Pozzo highlighted that unused leave hours or unproductive time could be subtracted from scheduled hours to decrease overtime liabilities. He recommended the village and the fire department revisit their policies regarding overtime compensation.
He also suggested that the fire department could improve efficiency by spending less time at hospitals during ambulance transport runs, expanding the performance metrics used to evaluate employees, and consolidating two of the department’s four stations—Station 1, located at 321 S. Buesching Road, and Station 4, located at 21970 Field Parkway in Deer Park.
Thanks, Dan.
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Adding some additional thoughts: As cities continue to face budgetary challenges, it’s crucial to strike a balance between maintaining high service standards and managing costs effectively. The recommendations from this analysis could serve as a model for other municipalities looking to optimize their public safety operations. By addressing overtime practices and operational inefficiencies, Lake Zurich may find opportunities to redirect funds toward other critical community needs. It’s a reminder that even well-run departments must constantly adapt to changing circumstances and feedback to remain effective.
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