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Special City Council Meeting Monday, May 27, 2015 Page 15 Councilmember Etten thanked Chief O'Neill for his thorough review and how he presented this proposal, opining that this was a great read of what the City Coun- cil was looking for from staff, not only for the annual budget, but also leadership growth. Mayor Roe concurred, and asked if there was any personal feedback to-date from firefighters as to whether or not this was a good approach to take. Chief O'Neill reported that part-time staff seemed happy, since this allowed more flexibility with their schedules next year and they were not committed to as many hours, allowing them more time for their main career and family. Chief O'Neill noted the value of their commitment and the need to balance their service to the community with the amount of time they provide and interest in adapting accord- ingly. Councilmember McGehee noted the addition of the building services contract by Chief O'Neill. Chief O'Neill opined that the regional opportunities for shared services and part- nerships with and among area fire departments were better than he'd ever experi- enced during his 27 years with the Depai fluent. Chief O'Neill noted discussion were ongoing in how to provide service at today's budget levels in every Ramsey County municipality while still trying to improve service levels to communities by working smarter rather than harder. Whether that is through continued auto aid agreements, or by working toward dispatching the closest unit no matter its ju- risdiction, Chief O'Neill noted the discussions continue and he may have some- thing additional on that front to bring to the City Council later this year. Chief O'Neill reiterated his appreciation for the climate of cooperation and relationships on the county level not previously found. Regarding community engagement, Chief O'Neill noted continuing efforts to find ways to engage community through special events, working with other organiza- tions, or other methods that will become available with stabilization of the Rose- ville staff, and able to be expanded further. Chief O'Neill noted there would be additional specialized hazard training with other fire departments due to the increased oil shipments moving through, even though Roseville was better prepared that others based on the tank facilities in the community, but being new to other municipalities. Through a countywide train- ing grant from Texas A & M, Chief O'Neill noted this training would be broader since any event would not be local and require a wider response for some events. As far as budget challenges, Chief O'Neill advised that the Department was seek- ing additional monies in 2016 for EMS and building maintenance contracts.