CLICS/CLICS2021A/commsumm.nsf
PUBLIC
BILL SUMMARY For FIREFIGHTING WORKFORCE CHALLENGES AND THE SWIFT PROGRAM
INTERIM COMMITTEE WILDFIRE MATTERS REVIEW COMMITTEE
Date Aug 12, 2021
Location Old State Library
Firefighting Workforce Challenges and the SWIFT Program - Committee Discussion Only
|
|
|
02:53:31 PM |
Jessica Warren, Colorado
Correctional Industries, presented regarding employment of people who are
incarcerated in Colorado. She discussed the State Wildland Inmate
Fire Team (SWIFT) program participants, the areas to which they have been
deployed, and their wages. Ms. Warren summarized 2021 legislation that
will expand the opportunities for participants in the SWIFT program. Mr.
Lee, SWIFT participant, discussed his experience with the SWIFT program
and the skills he learned through the program.
|
|
03:07:09 PM |
Ms. Warren and Ruth
Coffman, Colorado Department of Corrections, responded to committee questions
regarding SWIFT crews, challenges with the SWIFT program, and utilizing
the SWIFT program for mitigation work.
|
|
03:16:48 PM |
Chied David Wolf,
Estes Valley Fire Protection District, presented regarding firefighting
workforce challenges, using a powerpoint. He discussed challenges, including
limited housing and demographic issues, in Estes Valley. Mr. Wolf provided
suggestions for state assistance for volunteer firefighters.
|
|
03:24:13 PM |
Chief Brad White,
Grand Valley Fire Protection District, presented regarding challenges with
attracting and retaining firefighting workers, using a powerpoint. He explained
Grand Valley's staffing model and changes over time. Chief White discussed
staffing challenges with volunteer firefighter, career staff, and resident
firefighters. Chief White discussed incentives, funding options for fire
protection districts, and developing surge capacity.
|
|
03:41:28 PM |
Chief White and Chief Wolf responded to committee questions regarding SWIFT crews.
|
