Title
Interlocal Agreement for Joint Fire Rescue Public Information Officer Program (B)
This item recommends that the Commission approve the Interlocal Agreement Between Alachua County and City of Gainesville for a Joint Public Information Officer Program for fire rescue services.
Explanation
On July 21, 2008, the City Commission approved the General Government Financial and Operating Plan for Fiscal Year 2009, which included the elimination of one of the City of Gainesville Fire Rescue Department's (GFR) Risk Reduction Specialist positions; the position primarily served as the Public Information Officer (PIO) and oversaw adult education programs. In the same plan, an increment was approved allowing GFR to develop a joint PIO program with the Alachua County Department of Public Safety (ACDPS) in an effort to combine functions and reduce costs for both agencies. GFR and ACDPS staff developed the Interlocal Agreement Between Alachua County and City of Gainesville for a Joint Public Information Officer Program. Under the agreement, the City will compensate the County for the City's portion of the PIO services. The ACDPS currently employs this person and they have been functioning in the joint role since October 2008.
Fiscal Note
The decrement savings from eliminating the GFR Risk Reduction Specialist position was estimated at $63,287. The City's portion of the JPIO expenses as listed in the agreement is $37,914 and was funded during the FY09 budget process. There are enough funds to cover the cost of this contract.
Recommendation
The City Commission approve the Interlocal Agreement and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement, subject to the approval of the City Attorney as to form and legality.
Alternative Recommendation
The City Commission not approve the Interlocal Agreement.