Safety Board Meeting Minutes 2023

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Moran called the St. John Town Safety Board Regular Meeting to order on Monday, January 16, 2023 at 6:00 p.m., and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Safety Board Members present: Brian Daniell, Board Member; Patrick Moran, Board Member; Randolph Palmateer, Board Member; and Ronald Scott Swets, Board Member. Also present: Steven Flores, Police Chief; Kevin LaDuke, Fire Chief; Adam Decker, Attorney; Michael Schilling, Town Council Liaison; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and Beth Hernandez, Clerk-Treasurer. Absent: Raymond Paradiso, Board Member. A quorum was attained.

INTRODUCTION OF NEW BOARD MEMBERS:

New Board Members Randolph “Randy” Palmateer and Ronald “Scott” Swets were introduced to the public. Both Board Members provided a synopsis of work and life experience. Mr. Moran thanked Robert Kmetz for his service to the Board of Public Safety since its inception.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS:

Mr. Moran entertained a motion for election of Officers. Mr. Palmateer nominated Mr. Moran for President with second made by Mr. Daniell. All were in favor by voice vote. Mr. Daniell nominated Mr. Paradiso for Vice President with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote. Mr. Moran nominated Mr. Daniell for Secretary with second made by Mr. Palmateer. All were in favor by voice vote.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the minutes for the December 18, 2022 regular meeting. Mr. Swets made a motion to approve with second made by Mr. Daniell. Voice vote was 3 in favor with Mr. Palmateer abstaining.

NEW DEPARTMENT HIRES:

Chief Flores stated that the two conditional offers of employment were conducted according to the last meeting. He introduced Ryan Boss to the St. John Board of Safety who is the top candidate on the General Hire Eligibility List. Officer Boss comes to the St. John Police Department with 8 years of experience. Chief Flores worked with Officer Boss during countywide saturation patrols and praised his work ethic. Chief Flores requested that the Board approve his hire. A motion was made by Mr. Daniell to approve Ryan Boss to Probationary Police Officer, Badge 40, to the St. John Police Department. Mr. Palmateer made the second. All were in favor by voice vote. Clerk-Treasurer Hernandez provided the Oath of Office to Mr. Boss.

Chief LaDuke stated that his new hire was approved at the last meeting and started work on January 2, 2023. He introduced Firefighter/EMT T.J. Wilson, Badge 30, to the St. John Board of Safety who has worked for Gary and Hammond Fire Departments. Clerk-Treasurer Hernandez provided the Oath of Office to Mr. Wilson.

MONTHLY REPORTS:

Fire Department

For the month of December 2022, the St. John Fire Department responded to 169 EMS calls with 129 being transported to area hospitals. Of the 129 calls, 101 were ALS-1 cases, 4 were ALS-2 cases, and 24 were BLS cases. Residents comprised 73% of the EMS calls with 27% from non-residents. Franciscan Health Crown Point, Franciscan Health Dyer, and Community Hospital Munster continue to be the three major transport hubs. There is a pending Medicare certification related to generated billing, and other monies received were $28,778. Fire calls totaled 219 with 206 calls within the Town of St. John, 4 calls for unincorporated St. John Township, and 9 calls for mutual aid. The Fire Department ended the year with 2,216 calls being 16 more than the previous year.

Police Department

From December 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 18,283 miles and responded to 590 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 18 arrests with 44 charges being filed. There were 110 traffic citations issued, along with 182 written warnings, for a total of 292 citations being issued during the month. Vehicle thefts totaled $0, other thefts totaled $9,654, and recovered property totaled $334. Comparing 2022 to 2021, there were 397 more cases reported. Chief Flores thanked the Department for a job well done.

OLD BUSINESS:

Fire Department

Chief LaDuke reported that an offer of employment was made to Brian King. The Department is waiting for status from PERF. He anticipates Mr. King being sworn in next month.

Police Department

Chief Flores reported that the Department’s second hire has to go through the application process with PERF. He is waiting for status and anticipates swearing in next month.

2023 Corporal Promotion Eligibility List interviews were conducted. At the conclusion, four candidates made the list as presented to the Board this evening. The date of expiration is January 16, 2025. Chief Flores requested approval. Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the 2023 Corporal Promotion Eligibility List with motion made by Mr. Palmateer and second by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

Corporal Promotion was introduced by Chief Flores with the top candidate being Officer J. Burk. Officer Burk has 23 years of experience with 6 years in a supervisory capacity. Chief praised his experience that includes field training and mentoring other officers. He requested that the Board approve Officer Burk’s promotion to Corporal. Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the promotion. Mr. Daniell made the motion to approve with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

NEW BUSINESS:

Fire Department

General Order 4.05 Probation Period was revised to include the change as discussed from previous meeting. Full-Time Firefighters who transfer to St. John, with completing one (1) year or more at another department, shall serve a probationary period of six (6) months. Chief LaDuke requested approval from the Board. Mr. Moran entertained the motion to do so. Mr. Swets made the motion to approve with second made by Mr. Palmateer. All were in favor by voice vote. Chief LaDuke concluded by stating that this matter affects two Firefighters; T.J. Wilson who just started serving his probationary period, and Frank Pukoszek who started July 1, 2022.

Police Department

None

PUBLIC COMMENT:

None

ADJOURNMENT:

At 6:24 p.m., Mr. Moran called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Palmateer made the motion to adjourn with second made by Mr. Daniell. All were in favor by voice vote.

Respectfully submitted:

Amy J. Gross, Recording Secretary
St. John Safety Board

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Moran called the St. John Town Safety Board Special Meeting to order on Monday, February 6, 2023 at 7:00 p.m., and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Safety Board Members present: Randolph Palmateer, Board Member; Ronald Scott Swets, Board Member; Brian Daniell, Secretary; Raymond Paradiso, Vice President; and Patrick Moran, President. Also present: Steven Flores, Police Chief; and Adam Decker, Attorney. Absent: Michael Schilling, Town Council Liaison; and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. A quorum was attained.

POLICE DEPARTMENT SPECIAL BUSINESS:

Approval to Accept Officer Fabian’s Resignation

Chief Flores announced that Officer Fabian submitted his resignation today and requested that the Safety Board approve said resignation. Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the acceptance of Officer Fabian’s resignation. Mr. Paradiso made the motion with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

Approval to Extend a Conditional Offer of Employment to Candidate #3, Applicant #6 on the 2022 Police Eligibility List

Chief Flores then requested that the Safety Board approve to extend a Conditional Offer of Employment to Candidate #3, Applicant #6 on the 2022 Police Eligibility List. Mr. Moran entertained a motion for approval to extend a Conditional Offer of Employment to said Candidate/Applicant. Mr. Palmateer made a motion to approve with second made by Mr. Paradiso. All were in favor by voice vote.

ADJOURNMENT:

At 7:03 p.m., Mr. Moran called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Palmateer made the motion to adjourn with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

Respectfully submitted:

Amy J. Gross, Recording Secretary
St. John Safety Board

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Moran called the St. John Town Safety Board Regular Meeting to order on Monday, February 13, 2023 at 6:00 p.m., and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Safety Board Members present: Randolph Palmateer, Board Member; Ronald Scott Swets, Board Member; Brian Daniell, Secretary; Raymond Paradiso, Vice President; and Patrick Moran, President. Also present: David Demeter, Deputy Police Chief; Kevin LaDuke, Fire Chief; Adam Decker, Attorney; and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. Absent: Steven Flores, Police Chief; and Michael Schilling, Town Council Liaison. A quorum was attained.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the minutes for the January 16, 2023 regular meeting. Mr. Paradiso made a motion to approve with second made by Mr. Palmateer. All were in favor by voice vote.

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the minutes for the February 6, 2023 special meeting. Mr. Swets made a motion to approve with second made by Mr. Palmateer. All were in favor by voice vote.

MONTHLY REPORTS & UPDATES:

Fire Department

For the month of January 2023, the St. John Fire Department responded to138 EMS calls with 107 being transported to area hospitals. Of the 138 calls, 84 were ALS cases, and 23 were BLS cases. Residents comprised 78% of the EMS calls with 22% from non-residents. Franciscan Health Crown Point, Franciscan Health Dyer, and Community Hospital Munster continue to be the three major transport hubs. Total monies generated at $122,019 and received at $15,402. Fire calls totaled 169 with 157 calls within the Town of St. John, 8 calls for unincorporated St. John Township, and 4 calls for mutual aid.

Chief LaDuke added that some report changes will occur with the billing software for the next meeting. Also, there is a Medicare audit and Chief provided a letter from EMS Team Consulting to explain the process for Fiscal Year 2022. Mr. Moran asked about the money approved for the station and if work started. Chief explained that part of this was done for the grant last Friday. Downstairs will be a clean-gear storage area, but nothing more for the design at this time. Board Members will be included as requested. Mr. Daniell asked about the Medicare audit. Chief said that they are unsure what it entails, although, they were chosen, and they were not been able to get into the program by Federal Government standards. Access was gained just last week and the Fire Department is on page 20 of 500. Hopefully there will be more information to report at the next meeting.

Police Department

From January 1 through January 31, 2023, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 20,914 miles and responded to 491 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 20 arrests with 29 charges being filed. There were 166 traffic citations issued, along with 300 written warnings, for a total of 466 citations being issued during the month. There were no vehicle thefts reported. Property thefts totaled $18,978, and there was no recovered property reported during the month.

OLD BUSINESS:

None

NEW BUSINESS:

None

PUBLIC COMMENT:

None

ADJOURNMENT:

At 6:05 p.m., Mr. Moran called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Paradiso made the motion to adjourn with second made by Mr. Daniell. All were in favor by voice vote.

Respectfully submitted:

Amy J. Gross, Recording Secretary
St. John Safety Board

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Moran called the St. John Town Safety Board Regular Meeting to order on Monday, March 20, 2023 at 6:02 p.m., and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Safety Board Members present: Randolph Palmateer, Board Member; Ronald Scott Swets, Board Member; Brian Daniell, Secretary; and Patrick Moran, President. Also present: Steven Flores, Police Chief; Kevin LaDuke, Fire Chief; Adam Decker, Attorney; and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. Absent: Michael Schilling, Town Council Liaison. A quorum was attained. Board Member Raymond Paradiso appeared at 6:06 p.m. Clerk-Treasurer Beth Hernandez was present to conduct Oaths of Office.

CEREMONIAL OATHS OF OFFICE:

Firefighter/EMT Brian King was presented by Chief LaDuke. Mr. King served in the U.S. Marine Corps for five years and served two years with the Munster Fire Department. He began working for St. John on February 4, 2023. Clerk-Treasurer Hernandez conducted the Oath of Office followed by Chief LaDuke presenting Mr. King with Badge 31.

Police Officer Colin Studer was presented by Chief Flores. Mr. Studer began February 27, 2023 and will attend the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in August. Mr. Studer worked for Lake Central School Corporation as a substitute teacher and assistant baseball coach.

Police Officer Zachary Vassar was presented by Chief Flores. Mr. Vassar came from the Dyer Police Department and has been very active in his law enforcement role. His family has two other members in law enforcement serving on Munster and Highland Police Departments. Mr. Vassar began working on March 6, 2023 for St. John.

Clerk-Treasurer Hernandez conducted the Oaths of Office for both Officer Studer and Officer Vassar followed by disbursement of their badges; Unit 41 and 42 respectively.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the minutes for the February 13, 2023 regular meeting. Mr. Palmateer made a motion to approve with second made by Mr. Paradiso. All were in favor by voice vote.

MONTHLY REPORTS & UPDATES:

Fire Department

For the month of February 2023, the St. John Fire Department responded to 107 EMS calls with 91 being transported to area hospitals. Of the 107 calls, 77 were ALS cases, and 14 were BLS cases. Residents comprised 73% of the EMS calls with 27% from non-residents. Franciscan Health Crown Point, Franciscan Health Dyer, and Community Hospital Munster continue to be the three major transport hubs. Total monies generated at $105,005 and received at $64,977. Fire calls totaled 151 with 130 calls within the Town of St. John, 3 calls for unincorporated St. John Township, and 18 calls for mutual aid.

Chief LaDuke presented some slides regarding updated software. This app allows heat mapping of calls showing the most frequented locations requesting assistance. There are also charts with a breakdown of incident types from NIBRS (National Incident-Based Reporting System). Other slides reflect activity based on shifts, call volume by year, and other pertinent information. Mr. Moran requested the information to be sent to the Safety Board via email.

Regarding other news, the new Osage ambulance is anticipated for late 2024 delivery. Chief LaDuke may request another order with the Town Council as the time frame is two to three years for delivery. This would be included with the 5-Year Capital Plan. The new engine was ordered last year also, and the Department is on track for receipt from May to July 2024. Once delivery is accepted, the engine will go to an up-fitter for mounting of storage and tools for anticipated use of August 2024. The 2021 AFG grant (Assistance to Firefighters Grant) was awarded, therefore, the purchase request will be presented this month to the Town Council for about $120,000 of additional air pack funding.

Chief LaDuke added that he submitted the Town-Wide Disaster Plan to the Town Council. He is waiting on some revisions and direction from them, and it will come to the Safety Board thereafter. He also reported about ESBC (Emergency Services Billing Corporation) for fire billing. There is an Indiana Code that allows the Fire Department to bill insurance companies for some fire services, such as a motor vehicle accident. Other communities are practicing this step as well. He is waiting for legal review. Furthermore, another SAFER grant (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) was submitted for a total of 4 positions. He hopes that the Town will continue funding a new firefighter every two years. An AFG grant for cancer prevention was submitted. There is also an upcoming meeting for the building upgrades.

Police Department

From February 1 through February 28, 2023, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 23,711 miles and responded to 537 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 32 arrests with 47 charges being filed. There were 264 traffic citations issued, along with 438 written warnings, for a total of 702 citations being issued during the month. There were no vehicle thefts reported. Property thefts totaled $8,550, and there was no recovered property reported during the month. Chief Flores added that the largest property theft concerns an incident with an alleged caregiver. He also thanked the Safety Board for supporting the two officers presented tonight. There are now 26 full-time officers on the Department.

OLD BUSINESS:

None

NEW BUSINESS:

Fire Department Approval to Begin Process for Officer Testing

Chief LaDuke reported that there are some open positions and a list for officer positions. The General Orders state that the Fire Department is supposed to have an active list. A few months ago, the Safety Board revised some of the points to make the process more available for achievement. Chief’s proposal consists of filling one Captain Position, and possibly two Lieutenant Positions. This would place two Line Officers on each shift as according to the General Orders, an active list should exist at all times. Chief LaDuke would like to post the testing announcement, job descriptions, and timeline for the list to be active for two years. The applications would then be accepted from March 22 to April 19. Application review would occur April 20 with examination on May 23. Interviews would be June 13 with the certification of the list taking place at the Safety Board meeting on June 19.

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the process for the Officer testing. Mr. Swets made the motion with second made by Mr. Daniell. All were in favor by voice vote.

Police Department Notification of Town Hall Informational Meeting on April 11, 2023

Chief Flores reported that there will be a Town Hall-type informational meeting on Tuesday, April 11 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. in the Town Hall Chambers. The meeting will inform the public about current trends in crime, traffic-related issues, and tips on preventing fraud. The Safety Board was invited to join Chief Flores and the public.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

None

ADJOURNMENT:

At 6:30 p.m., Mr. Moran called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Palmateer made the motion to adjourn with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

Respectfully submitted:

Amy J. Gross, Recording Secretary
St. John Safety Board

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Moran called the St. John Town Safety Board Regular Meeting to order on Monday, April 17, 2023 at 6:00 p.m., and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Safety Board Members present: Ronald Scott Swets, Board Member; Raymond Paradiso, Vice President; and Patrick Moran, President. Also present: Steven Flores, Police Chief; Kevin LaDuke, Fire Chief; Adam Decker, Attorney; and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. Absent: Randolph Palmateer, Board Member; Brian Daniell, Secretary; and Michael Schilling, Town Council Liaison. A quorum was attained.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the minutes for the March 20, 2023 regular meeting. Mr. Paradiso made a motion to approve with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

MONTHLY REPORTS & UPDATES:

Fire Department

For the month of March 2023, the St. John Fire Department responded to 101 EMS calls with 76 being transported to area hospitals. Of the 101 calls, 63 were ALS cases, and 13 were BLS cases. Residents comprised 75% of the EMS calls with 25% from non-residents. Franciscan Health Crown Point, Franciscan Health Dyer, and Community Hospital Munster continue to be the three major transport hubs. Total monies generated at $87,256 and received at $56,503. Fire calls totaled 142 with 128 calls within the Town of St. John, 5 calls for unincorporated St. John Township, and 9 calls for mutual aid. There was a house fire during the month, and Chief LaDuke thanked the Police Department and Public Works for assisting with the call.

Police Department

From March 1 through March 31, 2023, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 26,208 miles and responded to 540 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 38 arrests with 56 charges being filed. There were 292 traffic citations issued, along with 444 written warnings, for a total of 736 citations being issued during the month. There were no vehicle thefts reported. Property thefts totaled $4,170 of which $2,170 was recovered. Mr. Moran thanked Chief Flores for conducting the Police-Town Hall meeting on April 11 and stated that it was very informative.

OLD BUSINESS:

None

NEW BUSINESS:

Police Department School Resource Officer (SRO) Partnership Proposal with Crown Point Christian School - Chief Flores reported that conversations are being held, and Mr. Schilling and Mr. Wiszowaty are being informed, about interest in an SRO for Crown Point Christian School. Conversation with the School has been ongoing, however, the recent school shooting in Tennessee sparked more concern for safety. The School is interested in mirroring the agreement that Lake Central School Corporation has with the Town of St. John. In that agreement, 75% of the cost for an officer is covered by the School Corporation. The first year would cover equipment needed to supply the officer, and include a salary and benefits package on a yearly basis. Chief Flores supports the idea, but it would be according to the approval of the Town Council. Crown Point Christian School (CPCS) would like to begin this agreement in August, however, it may not be until 2024 considering the current budget status. There are 900 students that attend school. Clark Middle School has about 1,100 to 1,200 enrollment for a comparison. Both schools continue to grow and there is a need based on the location. The first year would cost $50,000 for the Town with a total cost of $200,000; $150,000 for CPCS. The second year would cost $29,000 for the Town, $87,000 for CPCS. A proposal was being provided to the parents for their support, which will be given to the Town Council for consideration.

Lake Central School Corporation is also interested in expanding the SRO program to cover the elementary schools within the next three to five years. Chief Flores is supportive of having an officer in every school within the Town of St. John, especially a big school such as CPCS. Chief Flores further explained that an additional officer would be hired to fill the vacancy of an existing officer for SRO assignment in the School. The new officer would be assigned to patrol. Mr. Moran asked if CPCS would share in the SRO responsibilities with another agency, similar to Lake Central. Chief Flores did not believe that was feasible since the School is within the Town boundaries. St. John officers go to the St. John schools with the exception of one elementary school. Typically, they are kept within their jurisdictions. Crown Point Christian School intends to expand for a capacity of up to 1,300 students. Chief Flores will meet with parents at an upcoming meeting to explain the program.

On another note, Chief Flores was informed today that he was selected to attend the July FBI National Command Course in Virginia.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

None

ADJOURNMENT:

At 6:11 p.m., Mr. Moran called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Paradiso made the motion to adjourn with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

Respectfully submitted:

Amy J. Gross, Recording Secretary
St. John Safety Board

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Paradiso called the St. John Town Safety Board Regular Meeting to order on Monday, May 15, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. (time approximate), and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Safety Board Members present: Randolph Palmateer, Board Member; Ronald Scott Swets, Board Member; and Raymond Paradiso, Vice President. Also present: Steven Flores, Police Chief; Michael Gillette, Deputy Fire Chief; Adam Decker, Attorney; Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager; and Michael Schilling, Town Council Liaison. Absent: Brian Daniell, Secretary; Patrick Moran, President; and Kevin LaDuke, Fire Chief. A quorum was attained.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Paradiso entertained a motion to approve the minutes for the April 17, 2023 regular meeting. Mr. Swets made a motion to approve with second made by Mr. Palmateer. All were in favor by voice vote.

MONTHLY REPORTS & UPDATES:

Fire Department

For the month of April 2023, the St. John Fire Department responded to 118 EMS calls with 85 being transported to area hospitals. Of the 118 calls, 68 were ALS cases, and 17 were BLS cases. Residents comprised 64% of the EMS calls with 36% from non-residents. Franciscan Health Crown Point, Franciscan Health Dyer, and Community Hospital Munster continue to be the three major transport hubs. Total monies generated at $98,296 and received at $85,076. Fire calls totaled 158 with 136 calls within the Town of St. John, 7 calls for unincorporated St. John Township, and 15 calls for mutual aid.

The upcoming officers’ exam is May 23 at 3:00 PM at the Fire Department. The follow-up interviews will be on Jun 13 with Board Members welcome to attend. Two new members will be completing their probationary period on May 21 and June 30 respectively. The Department continues to wait for information on the AFG SAFER Grant. Area communities were awarded a $6.4M grant for Opticom and intersection improvements; Gary, Hammond, Highland, Munster, St. John, Lake County Highway and Sheriff’s Department. The allocation for each community is not known at this time.

Police Department

From April 1 through April 30, 2023, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 27,591 miles and responded to 607 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 31 arrests with 58 charges being filed. There were 219 traffic citations issued, along with 363 written warnings, for a total of 582 citations being issued during the month. There were no vehicle thefts reported. Property thefts totaled $14,670 of which $200 was recovered. The majority of the theft occurred from a case regarding an alleged caregiver stealing jewelry from an elderly resident. The Detectives have some small leads and continue to work on the case.

OLD BUSINESS:

Police Department School Resource Officer (SRO) Partnership Proposal with Crown Point Christian School - Chief Flores reported that there was a meeting held with the parents of the School. There is much support and enthusiasm regarding the program. There was a generous donation of $75,000 provided to the School to cover the first year of an SRO. This matter will be discussed in a Town Council Study Session on May 16, 2023.

NEW BUSINESS:

None

PUBLIC COMMENT:

None

ADJOURNMENT:

At approximately 6:05 p.m., Mr. Paradiso called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Palmateer made the motion to adjourn with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

Respectfully submitted:

Amy J. Gross, Recording Secretary
St. John Safety Board

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Moran called the St. John Town Safety Board Regular Meeting to order on Monday, July 17, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Safety Board Members present: Randolph Palmateer, Board Member; Ronald Scott Swets, Board Member; Raymond Paradiso, Vice President; and Patrick Moran, President. Also present: Steven Flores, Police Chief; Kevin LaDuke, Fire Chief; Adam Decker, Attorney; and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. Absent: Brian Daniell, Secretary; and Michael Schilling, Town Council Liaison. A quorum was attained.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the minutes for the May 15, 2023 regular meeting. Mr. Palmateer made a motion to approve with second made by Mr. Paradiso. All were in favor by voice vote.

MONTHLY REPORTS & UPDATES:

Fire Department

For the month of May 2023, the St. John Fire Department responded to 148 EMS calls with 101 being transported to area hospitals. ALS cases were 83, and BLS cases were 18. Residents comprised 71% of the EMS calls with 29% from non-residents. Franciscan Health Dyer, Franciscan Health Crown Point, and Community Hospital Munster continue to be the three major transport hubs. Total monies generated at $115,385 and received at $96,567. Fire calls totaled 204 with 181 calls within the Town of St. John, 7 calls for unincorporated St. John Township, and 16 calls for mutual aid.

For the month of June 2023, the St. John Fire Department responded to 125 EMS calls with 93 being transported to area hospitals. ALS cases were 74, and BLS cases were 19. Residents comprised 65% of the EMS calls with 35% from non-residents. Franciscan Health Dyer, Franciscan Health Crown Point, and Community Hospital Munster continue to be the three major transport hubs. Total monies generated at $115,887 and received at $60,369. Fire calls totaled 185 with 162 calls within the Town of St. John, 9 calls for unincorporated St. John Township, and 14 calls for mutual aid.

Police Department

From May 1 through May 31, 2023, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 29,497 miles and responded to 671 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 30 arrests with 69 charges being filed. There were 279 traffic citations issued, along with 495 written warnings, for a total of 774 citations being issued during the month. There were no vehicle thefts reported. Property thefts totaled $42,610 of which none was recovered. A majority of the property theft was jewelry that occurred at the assisted living facility in The Gates.

From June 1 through June 30, 2023, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 23,699 miles and responded to 548 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 18 arrests with 42 charges being filed. There were 181 traffic citations issued, along with 402 written warnings, for a total of 583 citations being issued during the month. Vehicle thefts were $39,000 with $34,000 recovered. Property thefts totaled $2,390 with no recoveries.

OLD BUSINESS:

None

NEW BUSINESS:

Fire Department – Certify Promotional List

Chief LaDuke presented the 2023 Captain List. Lt. Michael Sharp is listed. For the June 2023 to June 2025 Lieutenant List, Justin Andras and Zackary Strbjak are listed respectively. Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the Lists as presented. Mr. Swets made the motion with second made by Mr. Palmateer. All were in favor by voice vote.

Fire Department – Promotion of Lt. Sharp to Captain

Chief LaDuke requested the promotion of Michael Sharp from Lieutenant to Captain.

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to do so. Mr. Palmateer made the motion with second made by Mr. Paradiso. All were in favor by voice vote.

Fire Department – Promotion of F/P Andras to Lieutenant

Chief LaDuke requested the promotion of Justin Andras from Firefighter to Lieutenant.

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to do so. Mr. Paradiso made the motion with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

Chief LaDuke presented Captain Sharp and Lt. Andras with their badges.

Fire Department – Permission to Begin a New Eligibility List

Chief LaDuke requested approval of the 2022 Hiring List. There are still three people on the current Eligibility List. Chief is working with the Town Council to transfer money from the part-time budget to the full-time budget to bring each shift up to five personnel. The current List expires at the end of 2023, and all those listed are employed elsewhere. In case a member of St. John leaves the Department, and if the current candidates do not accept the position, Chief would like to start another two-year List. Applications would be accepted from July 31 to September 1 at 5:00 p.m. The orientation and testing would be on September 13 at 5:00 p.m. The oral interviews would be on September 27 with the Battalion Chiefs. October 4 would be the administrative interviews with Chief and two of the Safety Board Members. Lastly, the List would be presented at the October meeting for approval. Chief LaDuke would exhaust the 2022 List before advancing to the upcoming List.

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the start of a new hiring process. Mr. Swets made the motion with second made by Mr. Paradiso. All were in favor by voice vote.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

None

ADJOURNMENT:

At 6:18 p.m., Mr. Moran called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Paradiso made the motion to adjourn with second made by Mr. Palmateer. All were in favor by voice vote.

Respectfully submitted:

Amy J. Gross, Recording Secretary
St. John Safety Board

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Moran called the St. John Town Safety Board Regular Meeting to order on Monday, August 21, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Safety Board Members present: Ronald Scott Swets, Board Member; Brian Daniell, Secretary; Raymond Paradiso, Vice President; and Patrick Moran, President. Also present: Steven Flores, Police Chief; Kevin LaDuke, Fire Chief; and Adam Decker, Attorney. Absent: Randolph Palmateer, Board Member; Michael Schilling, Town Council Liaison; and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. A quorum was attained.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Moran entertained a motion to approve the minutes for the July 17, 2023 regular meeting. Mr. Paradiso made a motion to approve with second made by Mr. Swets. All were in favor by voice vote.

MONTHLY REPORTS & UPDATES:

Fire Department

For the month of July 2023, the St. John Fire Department responded to 125 EMS calls with 94 being transported to area hospitals. ALS cases were 74, and BLS cases were 20. Residents comprised 66% of the EMS calls with 34% from non-residents. Franciscan Health Dyer, Franciscan Health Crown Point, and Community Hospital Munster continue to be the three major transport hubs. Total monies generated at $107,077 and received at $63,473. Fire calls totaled 173 with 152 calls within the Town of St. John, 9 calls for unincorporated St. John Township, and 12 calls for mutual aid.

Police Department

From July 1 through July 31, 2023, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 21,119 miles and responded to 567 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 30 arrests with 66 charges being filed. There were 227 traffic citations issued, along with 370 written warnings, for a total of 597 citations being issued during the month. There were no vehicle thefts reported. Property thefts totaled $68,933 of which $1,118 was recovered. Regarding the theft, nearly $60,000 was related to a “sweetheart” scam. There are a few leads, and the feds were requested to be involved.

OLD BUSINESS:

None

NEW BUSINESS:

Fire Department – General Order Approval

Chief LaDuke reported that nearly a month ago, he sent the Board a list of General Orders needing updates. The Fire Department, as an “Officer Corps”, reviewed the Orders for any updates. The majority of them would be simply updating the review date. There are a list 21 Orders awaiting approval. For instance, General Order 1.08 has an effective date and a review date. This approval would acknowledge the review date unless a change has been noted to the Board. General Order 1.08 is one of the Orders where a change has been noted. For another example, General Order 1.01 has a review date that needs to be acknowledged by approval.

President Moran asked for a motion to accept Chief LaDuke’s General Orders as follows:
1.08 Duty to Obey Lawful and Reasonable Orders, 1.13 Line of Duty Deaths, 1.14 Mission Values, 2.02 to 2.11 Conduct of Personnel, 2.13 to 2.19 Internal Investigations, 3.01 Training, 3.03 Maintaining Certifications, 3.04 Training/Travel Compensation and Use of Department Equipment and Vehicles, 4.01 to 4.04 Hiring Process, 4.06 Promotional Process, 4.07 Promotional Eligibility List, 4.08 Performance Evaluations, 4.10 Employee Safety and Accident Prevention, 4.12 Employee Files, 4.13 Grievance Procedures, 4.22 Uniform and Professional Appearance, 5.09 Fire Ground Rescue Reporting, 7.02 Fire/EMS Ops, 7.24 Minimum Staffing, 7.32 Rehab Procedures, 7.37 Critical Incident. Mr. Swets made the motion with second made by Mr. Paradiso. All were in favor by voice vote.

Fire Department – Hiring Process Update & Approval

Chief LaDuke reported that he wanted to delay the hiring process due to the State of Indiana changing the hiring age for firefighters. It is now 18 to 40. In the history of St. John, the Department has hired those with prior experience. It is time to open the list to people with no experience. That was a General Order change as well. The proposed hiring process timeline would be as follows: application acceptance, August 22 to September 29; testing and orientation, October 9; Officers and candidate interviews, November 1; admin and candidate interviews, November 8; Chief and Deputy Chief conversation with the candidates, November 13 and 14; and list certification from the Board, November 20. This item does not require approval as it is just an amended timeline.

Police Department – Approval to Extend a Conditional Offer of Employment to Applicant #36, Rank #5, from the 2022 General Eligibility List

Chief Flores reported that the Town Council approved the extension of the School Resource Officer (SRO) program. Corporal Jacobs began his SRO status with Crown Point Christian School (CPCS) last week. CPCS is covering 75% of the cost, and an officer is needed to replace him on the road. The next available candidate on the 2022 Eligibility List is from Hammond Police Department. An extensive background check, medical exam, and psychological evaluation have been completed. Chief Flores requested approval to extend the Conditional Offer of Employment pending acceptance into the Police Pension Fund (PERF), which has already been initiated. An anticipated start date would be August 28. There should be no issues regarding the PERF status. An oath would be administered on his start date with a ceremonial version conducted at the next Safety Board meeting.

President Moran entertained a motion to approve the extension of a Conditional Offer of Employment to Applicant #36, Rank #5, from the 2022 Eligibility List. Mr. Daniell made the motion with second made by Mr. Paradiso. All were in favor by voice vote.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

None

ADJOURNMENT:

At 6:11 p.m., Mr. Moran called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Paradiso made the motion to adjourn with second made by Mr. Daniell. All were in favor by voice vote.

Respectfully submitted:

Amy J. Gross, Recording Secretary
St. John Safety Board