Highwood may supplement manning with contract personnel

Here's an updated version of the article from ChicagoTribune.com:

The City of Highwood might soon partner with a private company to bring in additional firefighters and paramedics. This move aims to meet the necessary staffing levels required to maintain the current fire insurance rating set by the Insurance Services Office. According to City Manager Scott Coren, the Highwood Fire Department needs at least four personnel on duty at all times to keep their rating intact. This requirement aligns with the terms of their collective bargaining agreement with the local fire union, which is affiliated with the International Association of Fire Fighters.

In addition to its own resources, Highwood benefits from mutual aid agreements with neighboring cities like Highland Park and Lake Forest, which can step in to help when needed. On April 8th, the Highwood City Council narrowly voted 4-3 to authorize staff to begin negotiations with Kurtz Paramedic Services—or another suitable provider—to supply extra full-time firefighters. The current department, serving a population of around 5,400 residents, already employs four full-time firefighters/paramedics, with one more still in the probationary phase. They are supported by part-time workers. If approved, this contract would come into effect after a mandatory 30-day waiting period stipulated in the union contract, potentially finalizing as early as mid-May.

City officials have confirmed there are no plans to reduce the existing full-time workforce, regardless of whether the city brings on external help. Kurtz Paramedic Services, run by CEO Tom Vana, already employs over 750 individuals across 26 municipalities and fire districts. Their client base includes notable areas such as Wheaton, Bensenville, and Tinley Park. Vana assured the council that if they secure the contract, they will prioritize hiring Highwood’s current employees unless any transferred staff members request to return to the city.

During the council meeting, Fire Battalion Chief David Mohry voiced concerns about how even a small number of private hires could affect the department's dynamics. He also highlighted worries regarding potential turnover rates among new recruits. His concerns echoed the broader uncertainty surrounding the impact of this decision on the community’s safety infrastructure.

Thanks for sharing, Dan!

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