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Public Safety Committee Minutes - June 2009:  No meeting

Public Safety Committee Minutes: 8 May 2009

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 8 May 2009 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Pete Deschenes, George Kimble and Patrick Dempsey.  

At the 10 April meeting members recommended the Enterprise EMS as the nest honoree, and plans will be followed to present to them at the 3 June General Membership meeting of the LGA. 

Pete Deschenes reported that NC Senate Bill 43, an Act to Improve Boater Safety Training, was modified by the Commerce Committee and passed with the new provision that only boaters born after 31 December 1984 need to have boater safety training. SB 43 passed the second and third readings on 5 May.  The Bill passed the first reading in the House on 7 May and was then referred to the House Committee on Wildlife Resources and, if favorably considered will bo to the House Judiciary III Committee. The Bill has now passed over to the House for action as amended.  There is no word at this time of what the next steps will be.  

We briefly discussed again the need for the LGA to take any action regarding introduction of fire fighting boats to the lake and determined to monitor developments.  There is no action requested of us by O’Sail at this point.

We briefly discussed other actions we might get involved with and decided our best information source might be benchmarking with other similar organizations at Lake Wiley and Smith Mountain Lake.  We also might be more successful in attracting speakers from Raleigh if we sponsor joint sessions with other organizations such as the Striper Club, Roanoke River Basin Association and Lake Gaston Water Safety Council.

We had a top level discussion of progress on Goal 5 from the Directors’ retreat and determined that actions are underway being led by Patrick Dempsey and the LGA officers. 

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 12 June 2009 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  10 Apr 2009

Attendees: George K, Linda H, John Cataldo

We proposed the Enterprise EMS for consideration for next Emergency response award.

We reviewed the O'Sail effort to place fire boats on the lake. We agreed that we should stay on the side lines until asked for assistance.

The boater education bill is still in committee.

Sheriff Roberts reported that crime rates are still low at the lake in Brunswick. We had no conflicting information from other counties.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  March 13, 2009

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 13 Mar 2009 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Pete Deschenes and Patrick Dempsey, consultant John Cataldo, and guests Stan Brothers (Churchill Five Forks VFD Pres), Butch Garnett (Chief, Roanoke Wildwood VFD), Paul Rapant (1^st Ass’t Chief, RWVFD) and Bruce Dimon (Capt. RWVFD)  

The committee persons present determined that there is no volunteer rescue activity in Halifax in the lake area and so the next unit to be recognized will by the Warren County Rescue Squad.  Jack will try to determine when and where they wish to receive their plaque. 

Pete Deschenes led a local contingent including John Cataldo (LGA President) and Bob Hedgepeth (LG Water Safety Council VP) to Raleigh on Wednesday 11 Mar, where they participated in the review of House Bill 39 (an Act to Improve Boater Safety).  The Bill was passed and will next be reviewed by the Judiciary III Committee. 

We had a brief discussion regarding how to have the information in the GIS maps integrated into the local E-911 maps, and what is currently available.

We also addressed follow up actions to the reported activity for Goal V from the Directors’ Retreat.

The major activity was to discuss the action item from the last General Meeting (4 Mar) regarding what role the LGA should play in organizing area interests in Fire Boat assets on the lake.  Stan Brothers reviewed a short film of one type of commercially available small crew fire response boat with both a recovery basket for victims in the water and a high flow pump for fighting on water as well as near water fires.  He also reviewed his observations from a visit to Smith Mountain Lake and seeing their capability.  Bruce Dimon reviewed his observations from a separate trip to Smith Mountain.  The Chair reviewed information provided by Ms Jane Teasly of the O’Sail, which outlined the progress that organization has made in having fire fighting assets being obtained for the three dams in the chain and organizing a group to operate the equipment.  It was the consensus that our next step should be to request that O’Sail meet with us in the near future so that we can gain additional insight into their activities, as it would be inappropriate at this time for the LGA to initiate any actions which might be counterproductive to their accomplishments.   John Cataldo will make the contact and tender the invitation.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 10 April 2009 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  13 February 2009

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 13 Feb 2009 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, and members Pete Deschenes, Patrick Dempsey and Linda Hedgepeth.  

The committee persons present determined to recognize the Central Rescue Squad in February.  Jack will try to determine when and where they wish to receive their plaque.  We also discussed resurfacing the idea of honorary memberships for each emergency responder group in the area.  Previously, giving one membership to each unit as part of LGA’s appreciation recognition was addressed.  It was decided to discuss with the executive committee, proceeding to provide the memberships to the units all at one time in order to facilitate communication and participation between the organizations.

Pete Deschenes reported on the recent attempts of the Virginia Safe Boating Alliance to support a resolution before the Virginia General Assembly to have the Dept of Game and Inland Fisheries perform a survey to obtain public opinion regarding compliance with the federal regulation for the wear of life preservers when underway by children under 13.  The resolution was sent to a subcommittee without discussion, which essentially tables the measure.  Pete also reported that the North Carolina General Assembly Joint Select Committee on Mandatory Boater Education at its final meeting on 15 Jan heard from several other sources mostly supportive of the subject legislation.  Rep. Wray and Sen. Jones have proposed bills in their respective houses of the General Assembly.  We will continue to monitor the progress of the Mandatory Boater Education legislation. 

We had a brief discussion regarding how to have the information in the GIS maps integrated into the local E-911 maps.  Many subdivisions are not accurately or completely reflected in the map data available to the emergency responders anyone else trying to navigate to a number of addresses.

We also addressed follow up actions to the reported activity for Goal V from the Directors’ Retreat.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 13 March 2009 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  9 Jan 2009

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 9 Jan 2009 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, and members Patrick Dempsey and Linda Hedgepeth.   

Our major topic for discussion was to complete action items from the Directors’ Retreat.  Patrick is leading this activity and reviewed the basis of the report to be provided at the February General LGA Meeting. 

We had a brief discussion regarding a project to learn what is involved with updating and improving the accuracy of local E-911 maps.  Many subdivisions are not accurately or completely reflected in the map data available to the emergency responders anyone else trying to navigate to a number of addresses.

The committee persons present determined to recognize the Southside Volunteer Rescue Squad in February.  Patrick will try to determine when and where they wish to receive their plaque. 

Pete Deschenes and the Chair had participated in a Virginia Safe Boating Alliance teleconference on Thursday 8 Jan.  Their main objective was to discuss the activities surrounding a resolution before the Virginia General Assembly in the upcoming session to have the Dept of Game and Inland Fisheries look at enforcement of compliance with the federal regulation for the wear of life preservers when underway by children under 13.  Pete attended the last North Carolina General Assembly Joint Select Committee on Mandatory Boater Education which was held on 3 Dec.  Presentations of potential training course material were made by the US Power Squadron and the USCG Auxiliary.  The last scheduled meeting of the Joint Select Committee will be held on 15 January. 

We briefly addressed subjects for inclusion in the LGA Bulleting input due on 19 Jan.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 13 Feb, 2009 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  December 12, 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 12 Dec 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Safety Committee 12/12/08.  The meeting was attended by John Cataldo, George Kimble, Bill Lindenmuth, Patrick Dempsey and Pete Deschenes.

The following items were discussed:

·        Recognition for Keith King, Jr. It was agreed that all three folks that participated in this rescue effort be recognized. It would be done at a LGA monthly meeting & would include a $25 dinner gift certificate and a paper recognition certificate.  The Committee Chair will obtain the gift certificates and recognition certificates.

·        The Roanoke Wildwood VFD was selected as the emergency responder honoree for January.

·        Pres Cataldo reported presenting the LGA recognition plaque to the Longbridge Fire Department at their monthly meeting on Dec 11, 2008.

·        Community Watch effort would have a speaker at a monthly meeting. Pres Cataldo agreed to contact Sheriff Brian Roberts of Brunswick County. John also will get in touch with Larry Jolly to get him scheduled. Patrick suggested that a ‘handy dandy’ reminder list of helpful hints be generated to distribute to the LGA membership regarding community watch effort. 

·        Pete reported on the Dec 3, 2008 meeting of the Joint Select Committee on Mandatory Boater Education. Two major agenda items: Safe Boating Course content; and Proposed Legislation. The US Power Squadrons review in detail their safe boating course in a very professional ‘power point’ presentation. They also reconfirmed their support of mandatory boater education. The US Coast Guard Aux & NC Wildlife followed up with review of their education packages. Counsel to the Committee presented a piece of draft legislation. Pretty much a copy of the NASBLA model and the Committee commented. Concern was voiced by some legislators concerning marina and boat dealer have some reservations. It was agreed that the next Committee meeting agenda on Jan 15, 2009 would include comments from representatives from this group 

·        Pres Cataldo reported that the agreement with McClees Consulting had been executed.

·        Patrick engaged the Committee in a discussion concerning LGA “IT” support and longer term directional discussion regarding ‘outreach’. This effort is a result of developing strategies in support of the recent LGA Retreat.

The next meeting will be on 9 Jan 2009 at 0830 at the EFG&G.  All comers are welcome.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  14 Nov 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 14 Nov 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Pete Deschenes and Linda Hedgepeth, advisor John Cataldo, and visitors Moira Underwood, Doug Hughes, David Duxbury, and Larry Jolly.   We also were honored to have guests Mr. Al Hartley, Warren County Sheriff Johnny Williams, Northampton County Sheriff Wardie Vincent and Northampton County Officer Brenda Burnette.

Our major topic for the meeting was how to revitalize and reinvigorate Community and neighborhood watch programs.  The kick off thought which is on many minds is that with a bad economy, there is a high probability that theft/burglary will be on the rise.  Our objective is to determine how to reduce the opportunity to be a target of crime.  Among the points made by our learned guests were:

1. Don’t wait until after the fact to get reorganized.  Be pro-active and really watch out for your neighbors now and not as a reaction.

2. Pay attention to cars and trucks in your neighborhood and be suspicious of those that are unfamiliar, and where those vehicles are seen.  If the location is not a full time resident, then either call the owner to check or call the sheriff.

3. There is a need in every neighborhood for a proponent of neighborhood watch; despite what may be the normal concept, a nosy neighbor may be a very good neighbor.

4. Decide what can work in your neighborhood with your neighbors; even the appearance of vigilance can be very useful in discouraging a potential burglar looking for an easy target.

5. Don’t make it easy – lock your doors and put things away that thieves may want on docks or around sheds.  Have the home look occupied. 

6. Use the county crime stopper numbers – calls are anonymous, and lines operate 24 hours a day.  If you see suspicious vehicles or persons, make the call and provide your observations – it may not make any difference immediately or it may solve a crime.  The CrimeStopper numbers are:  Brunswick – (434) 848-2336 or 1-866-884-5732;

Halifax – (252) 583-4444; Mecklenburg – 1-877-676-8477;

Northampton – (252) 534-1110; and Warren (252) 257-1356

There had been a discussion at the last meeting as to whether the plaque was sufficient recognition for the units being honored for their efforts.  Another idea surfaced with the committee and it was agreed to recommend to the officers and full board that the local Volunteer Fire Departments and Volunteer Rescue Squads be given honorary memberships in the LGA. 

We discussed the selection of the next emergency response unit for recognition and decided on the Longbridge Volunteer Fire Department in Warren County.   Pete took the action to inquire with the Longbridge VFD to determine if they would wish the presentation to be at their station or at the December LGA meeting.  We will also inform the appropriate press representatives. 

Pete provided an update for the activity being pursued in the NC General Assembly for the introduction of legislation for boater safety training.  There was a 2 hour meeting of the Joint Select Committee on Mandatory Boater Education, appointed by the Senate Majority Leader and Speaker (Pete was appointed by Sen. Basnight), and co-chaired by Rep. Michael Wray and Senator Ed Jones on 12 November, with participation from the National Transportation Safety Board, the National Association of Safe Boating Legislation Administrators, the Lake Norman Marine Commission, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and others as appointed.  Quite a few presented information supportive of the hoped for legislation and the next session is open to the public and scheduled for the morning of 3 Dec. 

We were running a little short on time after two somewhat long topics, but did address several other items that we intend to take up again for various activity:  NOAA radios for warning of local extreme weather conditions; contact with the US Army Corps of Engineers regarding emergency exercises at Kerr Dam; local area GPS map updates for improved accuracy to enhance emergency response; status of E911 communications capabilities within and among the counties; and actions to form a storm ready community around Lake Gaston.  Those with a real interest in improving your personal safety during weather related emergencies need to proceed to research available NOAA Emergency Weather Radios to find a good unit in time for the Holidays as a gift to friend or family member.

We also discussed the potential for sponsoring a program to re-energize neighborhood watch programs potentially as part of the Annual LGA meeting or some other community event, and/or getting together with businesses through the Chamber to heighten awareness of ways to reduce crime.  The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 12 Dec, 2008 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  10 Oct 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 10 Oct 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Patrick Dempsey, Fred Kneisel and Linda Hedgepeth with advisor John Cataldo. 

We discussed the selection of the next emergency response unit for recognition and decided on the Littleton Volunteer Fire Department in Halifax County.   Fred took the action to inquire with the Littleton VFD to determine if they would wish the presentation to be at their station or at the November LGA meeting.  We will also inform the appropriate press representatives. 

The Chair took the action to contact the Sheriffs’ Offices in each of the five counties to learn who their contact is for Neighborhood/Community Watch Programs and to see if one of them would be available to meet with us at the next Committee meeting and to see if there is a potential for a Monthly Meeting Speaker.  One subject which might be addressed is that of entering an empty house alone.  There was a suggestion that one should leave dirty work boots or shoes near the front or side door and a car in the drive when away.  Another recent suggestion is that if you have a remote for your car, keep it near your bed at night so that if you hear any suspicious noises you can hit the alarm (horn button) which will sound until you turn it off or the battery runs down. 

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 14 Nov, 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  12 Sep 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 12 Sep 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Patrick Dempsey, and Linda Hedgepeth with advisor John Cataldo.   

We discussed the selection of the next emergency response unit for recognition and decided on the Ebony Volunteer Fire Department in Brunswick County.  John took the action to inquire with the Ebony VFD to determine if they would wish the presentation to be at their station or at the October LGA meeting.  We will also inform the appropriate press representatives. 

We discussed the recent events associated with both the NC and Virginia Safe Boating Alliances.  Pete Deschenes, Jack Saunders and Rep Michael Wray were interviewed by WRAL TV regarding the intent and need for the proposed Boater Education Legislation which hopefully will go before the 2009 Session of the NC General Assembly.

We then discussed how we might increase interest in revitalizing Neighborhood Watch Programs and how we might start by including some of the tips we have previously identified in the next LGA Bulletin.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 10 Oct, 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  08 August 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 8 Aug 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Patrick Dempsey, Pete Deschenes and George Kimble with advisor John Cataldo. 

The agenda was to review ideas for Volunteer Fire and Rescue Unit Recognition, review actions ongoing related to NC Safe Boating Legislation and the Virginia Safe Boating Alliance, and progress on distribution of the 911 emergency cards and ideas for future activity and any other business.

The Chair reported that the distribution of the 911 emergency cards is complete with the exception of distribution as needed to VFDs and Rescue Squads.  Since almost 3500 have been distributed, it is hoped that the cards will be of benefit to the community. 

We discussed how to go about selecting the fire and rescue units for recognition and decided to start in Mecklenburg and proceed around the lake, unless there is an instance of outstanding or unusual action by one of the units which would result in immediate recognition.  Patrick took the action to inquire with the Lake Gaston VFD to determine if they would wish the presentation to be at their station or at the next LGA meeting.  We will also inform the appropriate press representatives. 

We discussed the recent events associated with both the NC and Virginia Safe Boating Alliances.  In Virginia, there is still no clear path to address legislation to have the Federal regulation for mandatory wear of life preservers by children under 13 when a vessel is underway (not docked or anchored) enforced by the Virginia Conservation Police. 

In NC, there was a teleconference to communicate the passage of the mandatory Safe Boating Education Study bill.  We also discussed how to move to the next steps leading to the 2009 legislative session.  It was reported that the Congress passed and the President signed the bill to exempt recreational vessels from the requirements of the Clean Water Act, thus offsetting a Federal District court decision favoring a California Environmental group who sued the EPA.

The action by the Northampton County E911 Communications activity to have a relay station leased to improve communication with the Roanoke Wildwood and Gaston units was addressed.  

We discussed the potential for new challenges to take on including the potential for bringing the revitalization of neighborhood watches back to the attention of full time and part time residents, and the need to address emergency planning before the fact such as that needed to prepare for hurricanes and other natural disasters.  The Executive Cmte asked us to look at the issue of fire hydrants or any other actions to reduce fire insurance costs. 

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 12 Sep 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.