05-08-2023 Council Work Session Packet

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Orono Fire Needs Assessment 16 | Page 3.2 Management Components The common challenge for fire service leaders is effective fire department management. Today’s fire department must address management complexities that include effective organizational structure, volunteer or paid-on-call personnel (POC), adequate response, maintenance of competencies and a qualified workforce. The effective management of the fire department needs to be based on a number of components. The fire department should start with the organization’s mission, vision and values which should align with the City’s. A mission statement expresses the core reason for an agency’s existence. A vision statement expresses where the organization wants to go in the near-term future. The values express how the members of the organization are going to treat each other on the journey to achieve the vision. These three core elements are all contained in a strategic plan. A strategic plan is typically a five-year work plan for the organization with goals and objectives. As Fire Chief of the Long Lake Fire Department, I created all of the above management components. 3.2.1 Foundational Management Elements The next steps are the essential foundational elements such as rules, regulations, standard operating procedures or guidelines along with department policies and operational documents. Then the development of internal and external communication practices and recordkeeping are implemented and maintained. These foundational elements allow an organization to move forward in an organized and effective manner. As Fire Chief of the Long Lake Fire Department, I developed and implemented all foundational management elements. 3.2.2 Management Documents and Processes To be an effective organization, a department should establish the appropriate documentation, policies, procedures and guidelines. Processes must also be established to address the flow of information and communication within the fire department as well as with the citizens it serves. As Fire Chief for the Long Lake Fire Department, I established new and improved policies, procedures and guidelines. Also, I created processes to establish the flow of communication and information within the department. 3.2.3 Record Keeping and Documentation Accurate record keeping is a must for any organization. As Fire Chief for the Long Lake Fire Department, I updated and improved all record keeping and documentation.