Oregon assistant fire chief duties to get update

9/20/2005

Oregon City Council is considering a proposal to update the assistant fire chief's position so the city will be prepared for applicants when the post becomes vacant next year.

Assistant Fire Chief Bill Flanagan plans to retire at the beginning of 2006 after 20 years in his current position, Fire Chief Ray Walendzak said at last night's council committee-of-the-whole meeting.

Council is considering a proposal to reflect current duties and required qualifications. The council is thinking about changing the minimum employment requirements from five years' experience to 10. In addition, the applicant would have to be a full-time firefighter with verifiable training in arson and fire investigation.

"It's a de-emphasis on training of paramedics and puts more emphasis on fire safety," City Administrator Ken Filipiak said.

Council will next consider the matter at Monday's council meeting.

Also on Monday, council will consider allowing U.S. Utility Contractor Co., of Perrysburg, to replace the electrical system that provides power for the lights near homes on Wheeling Street and on neighboring side streets north of Navarre Avenue and south of Starr Avenue.

Public Service Director Paul Roman said the firm submitted the lowest base bid of $158,003 with an alternate bid of $115,903 to provide decorative lights on Wheeling because it's a well-traveled street in the historic part of the city.

Work on the lighting project is expected to start near the beginning of October and should last until the end of the year.