Sisters and Brothers,

The administration has proposed retitling the current CARES Captain position to Medical Services Captain. This change comes out of discussions about strengthening our EMS programs and providing better support for CARES and our RN/SW bargaining unit.

Under the proposal:

• The position would shift focus from solely CARES work to a broader role supporting EMS program management under Chief Graziani.

• CARES responsibilities would remain part of the job but at a significantly reduced level.

• The administration is also working with the union on restructuring CARES by creating Manager and Supervisor positions that report to Chief Golden. This stems directly from RN/SW bargaining unit requests for clearer leadership and support.

The proposed title change will require an MOU and a membership vote of the Firefighter/Captain bargaining unit before any action is finalized. An MOU is currently being drafted and will be brought forward at the online only union meeting on November 6th for review and a vote to send to referendum ballot.

You can expect an email from the Fire Department very soon announcing the vacancy for this position and seeking interested Captains to apply. The process is starting early to help reduce potential impacts on vacation picks, specialty and shift bids.

Overall, this looks to be a positive move that improves coordination across our medical programs, supports our RN/SW members, and strengthens EMS leadership within the department.

If anyone has any questions, please reply to the message board post or call me.

Fraternally,

Keven