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HomeMy WebLinkAboutStrategic Plan1► loci log TOWN OF WESTLAKE STRATEGIC PLAN 2009 EXPLORE PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICE DELIVERY OPTIONS AND FUNDING In the Vision Statement of the 2009 Strategic Plan is states that we are one of a kind community. It also states that Westlake is home to several neighborhoods, all of which share a commitment to excellence. The vision and mission statements were drafted to reflect the unique characteristics found within our community and the values which are important to our residents. It is because of this and my concern for safety and well being of all of our citizens that I speak to you, whether it be in our corporate campuses or neighborhoods. We are all aware of the economy and what it is doing to citizens, companies, schools and town budgets. In looking over the 2009 Strategic Plan I would like clarification on page 15, number 3 which is exploring public safety service delivery options and funding and the short range goal ........................... We all need to work together and find other ways to cut the budget before our safety is outsourced to another town. Rumors have been flying about Westlake not having a fire department in the future and getting our help from neighboring communities because of budget cutting.. I am speaking for many citizens when I say that this would not be what the residents of Westlake want. In a recent survey, safety was at the top of the civic priorities. My Father was a firefighter and assistant fire chief for over 20 years when I was growing up in the 50's and 60's. I lived in a small town and the siren would sound and he was off in seconds. This happened during the weekday, evenings, weekends, holidays and my family learned to go on with our family meals or outings without him when we heard a siren. I remember many people thanking him over and over and I not realizing at the time what they were thanking him for and it has taken me years to realize that because of his dedication that he and other firefighters saved many lives and buildings. I now know because of my daughter and son in law being firefighters and paramedics that being one is not easy. I have three grandchildren at my home when they are working their 24 hour shifts. 1. Response time is of the utmost importance when it comes to safety and saving a life. If we are dependent on another city, the response time will go down dramatically and minutes count in the saving of a life and how can you put a price tag on a life. 2. I also know that the town received a grant for the fire trucks that we have and if the fire department is closed it is my understanding that if we were to ever try to start another fire department it would not be possible to get another grant. 3. When the economy turns around which it will as it always has before - -what firefighter would want to come back and start another department for fear of it closing again. I am going to read from concerned and thankful citizens and also the list of extra duties performed by the Westlake Firemen that I request you the town council which represent all of us not act in haste. I will have a petition brought before you or I ask that you draw up a referendum to see what the majority of the town would like when it comes to our lives and safety before a decision is made on this important issue for The Little Town That Could As Westlake employees, we recognize the need to wear multiple hats. Helping other Departments within the Town has become everyday business to us here at the Fire Station. We have worked hard to erase the divisions within the staff organizational structure. Silos are being torn down and the firemen have worked hard to indoctrinate a sense of direction to help meet the Town's vision and goals. Listed here are extra duties performed by the Westlake Firemen. Without these duties performed, we are only like any other Fire Department. With them we feel as if we are a part of a team; a team that can include all divisions, departments, boards and councils within the Town. • Hang Christmas lights at the Academy every year. (Facilities, Parks) • Direct traffic for the new parents and students at the Academy every year. (Keller Police) • Provide fire prevention classes for the primary students at the Academy every year. • Offer a type of mentorship between the Fire Men and students at the school by eating lunch with them on a regular basis and attending school functions. • Move furniture for the teachers and administrators at the Academy.(Facilities, Parks) • Water the grass and trees at the Academy when needed. (Public Works, Facilities, Parks) • Water trees at the cemetery when needed. (Public Works, Facilities, Parks) • Help set up/ tear down and pick up trash at Bandana Bonanza every year. (Public Works, Facilities, Parks) • Help set up/ tear down, pick up trash, deliver trees and cook at Arbor days every year. (Public Works, Facilities, Parks) • Help set up/ tear down, pick up trash, direct parking and cook at Decoration Day every year. (Public Works, Facilities, Parks) • Deliver agenda packets to the Town Counsel and P/Z Board members.(US Postal Service) • Work as warrant officers for several years helping the Town collect unpaid citations while on duty as a Fireman. (Courts) • Work as Bailiffs every court date at the Town Court to provide added security. (Courts) • Move bullet -proof glass for courts to prepare for installation. (Public Works, Facilities,) • Test and maintain fire hydrants. (Public Works, Street, Water Dept.) • Perform inspections to businesses and homes (Fire Marshall's Dept.) • Teach CPR and Safety Awareness classes to the Academy staff and local business. • Stage as standby at Vaquero every year for the Fourth of July fireworks display • Stage as EMS standby for Circle T Ranch • Oversee fire drills at surrounding businesses every quarter. • Help with moving items for the Historical Society while on duty and while off duty on personal time using personal vehicles. • Use personal money and tools to work on equipment when the budget would not allow purchasing.