In a recent special meeting of the Madera County Civil Service Commission, discussions centered around the operational protocols of the county fire department, particularly regarding vehicle usage and standby pay for staff. The meeting, held on April 25, 2025, brought to light the intricacies of how fire department personnel manage their responsibilities outside of regular hours.

At the heart of the conversation was the policy allowing certain employees, including Mr. Menick and Mr. Winton, to take county vehicles home. This practice raised questions about whether it affected their ability to respond to after-hours calls. The fire chief clarified that while the option to take vehicles home existed, it did not obligate staff to reject emergency calls. In fact, the department has a system in place with relief vehicles, ensuring that operations continue smoothly even if a frontline fire engine is temporarily out of service.

The discussion also delved into the role of the parts assistant, Ms. Diaz, and whether her position required her to respond to after-hours emergencies. The fire chief firmly stated that her duties did not include such responsibilities, nor did he ever expect her or other staff members to be on standby for emergency calls.

A significant moment arose when the topic of standby pay was introduced. It was revealed that Mr. Knowle had approached the fire chief in October 2022 to discuss the possibility of standby pay for staff. The chief explained the implications of standby status, emphasizing that it would require personnel to be available for immediate response, which would conflict with the current practice of taking vehicles home. He urged staff to consult with their union to ensure clarity on the definition and expectations surrounding standby pay.

As the meeting concluded, the fire chief highlighted the financial considerations of implementing standby pay versus the existing vehicle policy, indicating that the costs would essentially balance out. This nuanced discussion reflects the ongoing efforts within Madera County to ensure that fire department operations remain efficient while addressing the needs and concerns of its personnel. The implications of these decisions will likely resonate throughout the department as they navigate the complexities of emergency response and staff management.