City of Oak Creek

Common Council Report

Meeting Date:  June 19, 2007

Item No.:        

Recommendation:  That the Common Council approve the purchase of high-angle rescue equipment for the We Energies project.

Background:  In the approval process of the We Energies’ Elm Road Generating Station (ERGS) in Oak Creek, an analysis was developed for the impact on City services.  Analysis and impact statements were submitted in testimony before the Public Service Commission which ultimately necessitated mitigation payments to the City.

The City of Oak Creek understands its’ responsibility to respond to emergency incidents that would occur at the ERGS during construction and operation.  The response would include, but not limited to, events occurring at extreme heights in excess of 30 feet.  One aspect of the Department’s capability analysis included the operational need for specialized rescue during the construction of several buildings at or above this height.  This specialized rescue was beyond the training and equipment the Department possessed at the time.  Recent high angle accidents and safety requirements were reviewed and incorporated into the needs-analysis and operational plan that was developed.

Therefore, the Fire Department identified the building construction as another challenge that would be posed now and in the future.  In May of this year training was provided to eight department members by a firm certified in high-angle operations-level rope rescue (Ropes and Rescue Corporation) with the goal of training all department members to that level.  Out of that training, equipment needs were identified and a list of equipment was developed.

Even though this rescue equipment will be purchased specifically for a We Energies construction incident, the equipment will have multiple uses in a variety of rescue and fire incidents beyond the construction period.  The equipment will last many years and will support the department in it’s’ mission of service to the community.  The Common Council has been provided a spreadsheet which outlines the alternative use of this same equipment.

Fiscal Impact:  The estimated cost of the equipment is $13,966.80.  The monies for the equipment will come from the We Energies Mitigation Account #19-65-957.00

Prepared by: Tom Rosandich Assistant Fire Chief	Respectfully submitted, Patrick DeGrave City Administrator
Approved by: Brian M. Satula Fire Chief
Fiscal Review by: Beverly A. Buretta, CMC City Clerk