4.7. SR 08-18-2014 City of
Elk Request for Action
River
To Item Number
Mayor and City Council 4.7
Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by
Consent August 18, 2014 T.John Cunningham,Fire Chief
Item Description Reviewed by
Hire Fire Department Deputy Chief of Operations Lauren Wipper, Human Resources Representative
Reviewed by
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Action Requested
Approve,by motion,the hiring of Aaron Surratt to the position of Deputy Chief of Operations for the
Fire Department, effective September 2, 2014.
Background/Discussion
The Fire Department's 2013-2017 Strategic Plan included the creation of a full-time deputy chief position
to oversee the department's operational firefighting force. The funding for this position was included in
the 2014 budget,with an anticipated start date mid-year. Nineteen applications were received.
The selection process included multiple interview panels involving Fire Department front-line and
command staff, city leadership, outside representatives, and human resources. The panels were
impressed with the candidates that were interviewed.
Aaron Surratt is recommended for this position. Mr. Surratt has extensive fire service leadership
experience and is currently an Assistant Chief with the West Metro Fire Rescue District. Mr. Surratt has
completed the required background and physical screening. He is a resident of Zimmerman and meets
the residency requirements of the position.
An Oath of Office ceremony will be scheduled at a later date.
Financial Impact
This is a budgeted position. Mr. Surratt will be paid at pay grade 13, starting at Step A. He will accrue
vacation at the rate of 15 days per year. All other pay and benefits will be consistent with city policy.
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P a w E n E o A T
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