04-22-2024 CC Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Date: April 22, 2024 Item: 10 Presenter: James Van Eyll, Fire Chief Section: Consent Agenda Title: Updating our membership into the Hennepin County Fire Chiefs Association 1.Purpose: The purpose of this resolution is to update our membership in the Hennepin County Fire Chiefs Association due to their new status as a non-profit. 2.Background: The Hennepin County Fire Chiefs Association (“HCFCA”) is a group of fire departments and other organizations in the fire service industry in Hennepin County that provides cooperation, education, and training regarding fire service and emergency response in the county. While historical documentation is sparse, it appears that HCFCA was formed in the early 1960s, but no records exist suggesting that the group has ever been incorporated or recognized as a formal entity with the Minnesota Secretary of State. In early 2023, HCFCA’s Board of Directors began an effort to formalize the group’s organizational status, including ensuring that it is meeting state and federal tax obligations. The Board engaged an attorney to advise it on organizational matters. The Board discussed the relative merits of organizing as a joint powers entity under Minn. Stat. § 471.59 or a nonprofit corporation, and ultimately decided to move forward as a nonprofit to provide maximum flexibility in its authorized activities and members. In making this decision, the Board looked to the organizational structure of the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association, which is also organized as a nonprofit. The Board intends to apply to the IRS for tax-exempt status as a 501(c)(6) business association. 3.Staff Recommendation: I recommend approval of Resolution Number 7470 AGENDA ITEM COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED Motion to approve Resolution Number 7470 Exhibits 2024 03 15 - Resolution Approving Fire Department Membership in HCFCA.docx 128