EAST QUOGUE FIRE DISTRICT

REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING

SEPTEMBER 4, 2025

The Regular Monthly Meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the East Quogue Fire District was called to order by Chairman James Schaefer at 7:00 p.m.  Present were Commissioners James Schaefer, Allyn Jackson, Stephen Gregory and Edmund Densieski, Fire District Facilities Supervisor Dave Schaffauer, Medical Coordinator Brian Danowski, Chief Keith Phillips, Treasurer Colleen Pearsall and Secretary Lorraine Gregory.

FIRE DISTRICT FACILITIES SUPERVISOR REPORT

See attached report.

I-Pad has been installed but hasn’t been hotwired.

Mr. Schaffauer requested the last four digits of the Social Security numbers for some of the new members so that he can update the Lock Box System.

A written proposal is required before the vehicles can be detailed.  Mr. Schaffauer stated that, last year, the cost was approximately $4,000.00 and that he will get the written proposal.

A motion was made by Commissioner Gregory, seconded by Commissioner Densieski, authorizing the purchase of a new TV Monitor for Station 2, at an approximate cost of $400.00.  Approved 4-0.

ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION

The Chief will speak with the Seafood Party Committee regarding the manifold and propane delivery.

Commissioner Gregory requested that the Chief arrange for the removal of the fencing that is no longer usable so that arrangements can be made for a dumpster.

Mr. Schaffauer presented a proposal from Door Performance, in the amount of $11,025.00, for replacement of the three (3) overhead doors.  Tabled pending a second proposal.

MAINTENANCE REPORT

Maintenance Report dated 8/1/25 to 9/4/25 submitted to the Board.

MEDICAL COORDINATOR REPORT

See attached report.

MATERIAL REQUESTS:

A motion was made by Commissioner Gregory, seconded by Commissioner Densieski, authorizing the purchase of the medical supplies requested from Bound Tree Medical, at a total cost of $209.73.  Approved 4-0.

REPORT DISCUSSION

A motion was made by Commissioner Densieski, seconded by Commissioner Jackson, authorizing the purchase of two (2) recliner chairs for the EMS Room, at a cost of approximately $700.00 each.  Approved 4-0.

Mr. Danowski advised the Board that the two stair chairs have been delivered and that a training session will be held Monday night.  There is a one year Warranty and Mr. Danowski would like the Board to consider extending it.  To be discussed further at a Workshop.

The Chief advised Mr. Danowki and the Board that, for the upcoming Seafood Party, Hampton Bays will be covering EMS and Riverhead will be covering fire alarms and that he will confirm these arrangements.

CHIEF'S REPORT

See attached report.

REQUESTS

1.  A motion was made by Commissioner Gregory, seconded by Commissioner Densieski, authorizing the purchase of a Tailgate Seal for the bed of the First Assistant Chief’s vehicle (7-6-31), at a cost of $30.00.  Approved 4-0.

2.  Tabled pending more information.

3.  A motion was made by Commissioner Densieski, seconded by Commissioner Gregory, authorizing Lt. Frank to attend the EMS EXPO Conference, October 20-24, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.  The conference fee is $645.00.  Information regarding airfare and hotel expenses not submitted.  Approved 4-0.

4.  A motion was made by Commissioner Gregory, seconded by Commissioner Densieski, authorizing the purchase of five (5) 5-gallon containers of Class B Firefighting Foam, at an approximate cost of $180.00-$200.00 each.  Approved 4-0.

ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION

 

1.  Gear Cleaning Policy  -  The procedure is that the member contacts the Chief, the Chief then notifies Mr. Schaffauer and Mr. Schaffauer will arrange for the cleaning.  Commissioner Gregory advised the Chief that gear is cleaned as needed and that all gear is routinely cleaned once a year.  Commissioner Schaefer advised the Chief that the Board is working on a Policy to become part of the Policy and Procedures Manual.

2.  High Water Rescue Vehicle  -  Commissioner Densieski suggested that the Chief contact Jonathan Erwin for information.  The Chief advised that Quogue PD has a vehicle, but it was not available at the time.  Mr. Schaffauer stated that there are no high water vehicles available on the Eastern seaboard and that the cost of shipping one from the West would be very expensive.

3.  District Mechanic  -  The Board advised the Chief that, before the Chiefs and members discuss among themselves the mechanic’s ability to properly maintain our vehicles, they should first address the Board with their concerns.  Commissioner Densieski stated that he would be agreeable to set up a meeting with the mechanic, the Chiefs and concerned members to discuss the issues with the brush truck.  Mr. Schaffauer stated that all the vehicles have a preventative maintenance schedule and also advised that there is a specific marine grease that withstands salt water.

4.  Flu Shots  -  will be made available to the membership in October.

5.  Training Seminar  -  the District covers the cost of members only, not the spouses or guests.  More information was requested by the Board.  Commissioner Jackson reminded the Chief that all of this information should be known and made available prior to the Monthly Meeting.  The Secretary advised the Chief of the Travel Policy.  The Treasurer reminded the Board that attendees are required by law to submit a written report regarding their attendance at conventions/seminars.

ATTORNEY DISCUSSION

Mr. Glass was not in attendance.

MINUTES

A motion was made by Commissioner Gregory, seconded by Commissioner Densieski, approving the Minutes of the August 4, 2025 Regular Monthly Meeting.  Approved 4-0.

TREASURER'S REPORT

A motion was made by Commissioner Jackson, seconded by Commissioner Gregory, approving the Treasurer’s Report as submitted.  Approved 4-0.

ABSTRACT OF BILLS

A motion was made by Commissioner Jackson, seconded by Commissioner Gregory, approving the Abstracts of Bills for the General Fund consisting of 19 checks totaling $31,768.71 dated September 4, 2025 and 25 checks totaling $28,840.16 dated August 21, 2025 and to authorize the transfer of $150,000.00 from the Money Market to the Checking Account.  Approved 4-0.

COMMUNICATIONS AND CORRESPONDENCE

Correspondence received including the following:

1.  E-mails from Rudolph Sunderman (FRES) regarding Transition To Plain Language and Resound/Retone (Signal3) Text Paging

2.  A letter from the Department dated August 8, 2025 regarding the resignation of Tyler Davonski from the Department and Ex-Chief Scott Davonski leaving the active rolls and becoming a Life Member.

3.  A letter from the Department regarding the resignation of Steven Cea and the probationary memberships of Gabriel Blowes and Michael Wier in the Department.

OLD BUSINESS

Commissioner Jackson advised the Board that he researched a 50’ x 50’ building with 14’ high and 12’ wide doors.  It will be a tight fit, but all of the vehicles will fit, including the ambulances.  The tower ladder will not fit.  The generator does not need to be replaced.  A new generator would cost $90,000 to $100,000.  The District will have to get a bond for $3,800.000.00 and use Building Reserve Funds for the balance.  Commissioner Jackson suggested meeting with the public relations firm (Mark Grossman MGPR) for their input.  Commissioner Gregory suggested having the public relations firm address the Department to answer questions and concerns.

Commissioner Gregory stated that there must be a backup spotter at all times and asked the Chief what the Department’s Policy is.  The Chief responded that he had sent an e-mail to the membership and will address the issue at the upcoming Department meeting.  Commissioner Gregory stated that the second person in the cab becomes the spotter and gets out of the cab to be the spotter from the floor.

NEW BUSINESS

A motion was made by Commissioner Densieski, seconded by Commissioner Jackson, accepting the resignation of Steven Cea from the Department, pending the return of all District property issued to him.  Approved 4-0.

A motion was made by Commissioner Gregory, seconded by Commissioner Densieski, accepting the probationary memberships of Gabriel Blowes and Michael Wier in the Department.   Approved 4-0.

A Workshop was scheduled for Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

At 8:30 p.m., a motion was made by Commissioner Gregory, seconded by Commissioner Densieski, calling the meeting into Executive Session to discuss the ongoing issue with the NYS Retirement System. Approved 4-0.

At this point, Mr. Schaffauer and Chief Phillips left the meeting.

At 9:06 p.m., a motion was made by Commissioner Jackson, seconded by Commissioner Densieski, calling the meeting out of Executive Session.  Approved 4-0.

At 9:07 p.m., there being no further business, a motion was made by Commissioner Schaefer, seconded by Commissioner Jackson, to adjourn the meeting.  Approved 4-0.

Submitted by

Lorraine Gregory, Secretary

 

East Quogue Fire District’s House Attendant Report

To the Board of Fire Commissioners,

This is the attendant’s report for September 4^th, 2025, meeting including but not limited to:  

• General Maintenance and building care.
• Updated the website For the District.
• Updated the sign.
• I Pad is installed on 7-6-12
• I Pad dock and brackets for 12 came in and is installed on the truck
• RPZ inspection complete
• Webbing and radio straps for 16 and 17 came in
• New cord for the Fan on 7-6-1 is installed
• 14 Bottles from QFD have been delivered
• 6 Packs with bottles have been delivered
• EMS Helmets were delivered
• Green Earth Plumbing has been working on the heating system.
• CO charger on 7-6-1 has been replaced
• The door on 7-6-8 has been repaired

Topics for discussion:

Green Earth Propane will need to know at least 2 weeks in advance of the Seafood Party the set up for the appliances so the can have the manifold made up and gas delivered.

CHIEFS REPORT

September District Request Tailgate seal for the bed of Chief Bullocks vehicle (7-6-31). To maintain the operational integrity and longevity of department equipment, it is recommended that a rubber seal be installed, specifically the tailgate void of 7-6-31. The truck bed often carries sensitive gear such as command boards, PPE, medical kits, and communication tools. A rubber seal prevents intrusion of dirt, dust, rainwater, and road debris, preserving equipment functionality and reducing maintenance costs. Preventing moisture and debris buildup reduces corrosion and wear on the truck bed. Cost: $30.00 Request by Chief Bullock https://caliraisedled.com/products/gapshield-tailgate-gap-cover

FF gear drying rack: Wet gear can take 24–48 hours to air dry, delaying readiness. A dryer rack reduces drying time to mere hours, ensuring gear is mission-ready for the next call. Additionally, This rack can reduces Mold & Mildew. Moisture trapped in boots, gloves, and liners can lead to microbial growth, damaging gear and posing health risks to members. (see attached link) Cost: $7,100.00 (4 gear rack) Requested by: Lt. Recchion https://circul-air-corp.com/shop/dryers/dry-portable/circul-air-portable-dryer-4-position/

 EMS EXPO Conference:. Lt. Frank is interested in attending this years EMS Word EXPO Conference, 10/20-10/24 in Indianapolis. This EMS conferences offer access to the latest protocols, technologies, and evidence-based practices in emergency medicine, including pediatric care, trauma response, and pharmacology. This conference also will support continuing medical education Credits (CME). At this time, no other EMS providers are interested in attending. Cost: $645.00 conference fees. flight and hotel accommodations TBD

Requested by Lt. Frank

5 Gallon containers of Class B Foam. Our department is currently out of stock of Class B firefighting foam, which is essential for suppressing flammable liquid fires (e.g., gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, ethanol, and other hydrocarbons). This foam is a critical component of our operational readiness, particularly for incidents involving vehicle fires, fuel spills, and industrial hazards. Class B foam is required for effective suppression of Class B fires, which cannot be safely or efficiently extinguished with water alone. Without foam, our ability to mitigate fuel-based fires is compromised, increasing risk to personnel, civilians, and property. We requesting immediate purchase of five of 5-gallon containers of Class B firefighting foam. Cost: Approximately 180-200 each

Requested by: Lt Rousell

Discussion: FF gear cleaning policy.

High water rescue vehicle: Over the past years, we have been utilizing 7-6-12 for high water operations, not our ideal apparatus to deploy, however we currently do not have any other option except resource out to neighboring agencies. We are exploring options to remedy this matter. One option is to purchase a surplus military / high water rescue vehicle, similar to HBFD's rig. District mechanic, Reference 7-6-12. The chief's office has been questioning the maintenance of 7-6-12, due to recent mechanical problems.

Respectfully Submitted, Keith Phillips