TO: Missouri Valley Association of Fire Chiefs
FROM: Bob Pottberg, International Director
SUBJECT: IAFC Update
DATE: January 16, 2001
The monthly IAFC conference call was conducted on January 11, 2001. The agenda was short but contained some important information. The following areas were discussed:
FEMA DIRECTOR
With the appointment of Joe Allbaugh as the new FEMA Director the IAFC will have to rebuild relationships on the political scene. The general feeling of staff and those in Washington is that Mr. Allbaugh is a good fit for the position. It appears he has support from both parties. I have attached e-mail from the Executive Director.
NFPA 1710
Watch On-Scene for detailed information on NFPA 1710. The technical committee has received their packets with the ballots. It is felt that the technical committee will pass the version with the requested changes submitted by the IAFC. The final draft will be voted on in May at the annual NFPA conference. You may want to keep an eye on the NFPA web site also.
FIRE ACT
Things seem to be moving rapidly with the Fire Act and the funding. On January 10th, representatives of the IAFC and the nations other major fire service organizations met with FEMA Director James Lee Witt, Ken Burris COO of the United States Fire Administration, and other FEMA and USFA officials to discuss the agency’s plans to implement the new $100 million grant program. The results look very positive. I am attaching e-mail from the NVFC that gives most of the details.
CONSTITUTION, BYLAWS & RESOLUTUIONS AND ELECTIONS
There have been no submittals for changes to the constitution or bylaws at this point for consideration at the conference. Two candidates have filed for the position of Treasurer. Chief Julian Taliaferro and Chief Ron Siarnicki will be on the ballot. Only on candidate, Chief Greg Cade has filed for the 2nd Vice President position. The deadline for filing is February 23rd.
CFAI
The CFAI is considering a move. They are looking for more space to expand. This would open up some options for both organizations. No decisions have been made at this point.
IAFC OFFICE REMODEL
The remodel of the office is 99% complete and under budget! The Board will take a tour at January meeting.
I have developed a draft position paper to be considered by the MVAFC Board at our January meeting. You should have received it by e-mail by now and if you are unable to attend the Board meeting please give me some input by the 24th. President Brown has requested this. If you have any questions please contact me.
See you at the Planning meeting!