Highwood may supplement manning with contract personnel

The city of Highwood is considering outsourcing some firefighting and paramedic services to a private company in order to meet staffing requirements for its fire-insurance rating. This move aims to ensure the department maintains the necessary personnel levels, which are crucial for both insurance purposes and contractual obligations.

City Manager Scott Coren explained that the Highwood Fire Department must have at least four personnel on duty at all times to maintain its Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating. This requirement is also outlined in the city’s collective bargaining agreement with the local fire union, part of the International Association of Fire Fighters.

Highwood currently has an automatic-aid agreement with neighboring departments like Highland Park and Lake Forest, meaning they can receive assistance when needed, and in return, Highwood can help them as well.

On April 8, the Highwood City Council approved a proposal by a narrow 4-3 vote, directing city staff to begin negotiations with Kurtz Paramedic Services or another provider to bring in additional full-time firefighters and paramedics. The current department has four full-time non-probationary firefighters/paramedics, with a fifth in the probationary phase. Part-time staff also support the department.

The council's decision triggered a 30-day waiting period as required by the union contract. If everything goes smoothly, an agreement could be finalized by mid-May. Importantly, no full-time, non-probationary employees will be laid off if the city moves forward with this plan, according to the city manager.

Kurtz Paramedic Services employs over 750 firefighters and paramedics nationwide, and has contracts with 26 municipalities and fire protection districts. Their clients include cities such as Wheaton, Bensenville, Lyons, Tinley Park, Westmont, and Crete, as well as fire protection districts in South Chicago Heights, Frankfort, and Plainfield.

Tom Vana, president and CEO of Kurtz, told the council that the average experience of their firefighters and paramedics is just under 15 years. If selected, the company would offer preferential hiring to current Highwood employees, unless those employees choose to be transferred elsewhere.

Fire Battalion Chief David Mohry voiced concerns during the council meeting, highlighting potential challenges that even a small number of private employees might bring to the department. He also raised questions about possible employee turnover and its impact on the department's stability.

Thanks, Dan

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