To: Mayor and City Council
From: Mark R. Hafner, City Manager
Subject:
Title
Consider a resolution approving an Interlocal Agreement with the Town of Westlake, Texas, for consolidated full-time fire protection/prevention and emergency medical services; for a term of sixteen (16) months commencing April 1, 2021; to include an equally shared feasibility study regarding said consolidated services; and authorizing the City Manager to execute all documents relating thereto on behalf of the City of Keller, Texas.
Background:
The recent retirement of the Keller Fire Chief presented the opportunity to explore a partnership for fire rescue services with the Town of Westlake. Keller and Westlake began their first public safety collaboration in 2001, when the Keller Police Department assumed responsibility for providing law enforcement services, including 911 dispatch, detention and animal services, for Westlake. The proposed arrangement differs from the police services agreement in that it is not an outsourcing or contracted relationship. Westlake has an existing fire station with the associated resources, including an ambulance, which could augment services in Keller.
The proposed Interlocal Agreement includes terms for the consolidation of Westlake and Keller’s fire protection/prevention and emergency medical services on a temporary basis while the communities participate in a joint feasibility study to determine the merits of a permanent merger. The current Westlake Fire/EMS Fire Chief will assume the role of Interim Chief of Keller Fire Rescue and Keller battalion chiefs will begin running calls in Westlake.
The Westlake Town Council will consider the Interlocal Agreement at their next regular meeting on March 29, 2021.
Financial Impact:
The potential merger is not being proposed as a potential cost savings measure. Both communities will maintain their current department budgets, compensation packages and recruitment procedures. Keller and Westlake will share equally in the cost of the consultant(s) necessary to perform the feasibility study.
Citizen Input/Board Review:
Residents, fire personnel, and Council Members from both communities will have the opportunity to engage in the feasibility analysis during the temporary consolidation.
Legal Review:
The City Attorney has reviewed and approved the proposed Interlocal Agreement.
Alternatives:
City Council has the following alternatives:
- Approve as submitted
- Approve with changes
- Denial