The meeting was called to order by President LeClaire at 2002 hours.

Following a salute to the flag and a moment of silence, a quorum call was taken.

Welcoming everyone was Chief Thomas Lambert who thanked everyone for coming and commended the staff for the meal.

Advocate Member present were Skip Sullivan, Judy Marshall and Jon Kipp.

Guests were introduced from Gray, Me; Bedford and Durham were introduced

Chief LeClaire noted that the minutes of the previous meetings were printed and available for distribution. A MOTION (Christopoulos/Farley) to accept the minutes as printed, carried unanimously.

Deputy Chief Martin Carrier presented the financial report for the month. A MOTION (Farley/Landry) to accept it carried unanimously.

Chief Lemire read one application in second reading. A MOTION (Thibeault/M. Carrier) to accept the one in second reading for membership carried unanimously. The NHAFC welcomes Deputy Fire Chief of Operations Neal Carter of Hudson as its newest member! Congratulations!

Director Mason reported on the following:

• Life Member – Richard Seigel was presented his at his retirement testimonial.
• PSOB law signed by Governor Lynch.
• CFOD seminar to be held in Amherst July 16.
• Two new CFO designations – Chiefs Lambert (No. Hampton) and Chief Brown (Seabrook).
• Boards and Commissions and vacancies that will be upcoming. Members are urged to consult newsletter for information.
• Newsletter – reminded members of semi-monthly distribution.
• BOD meeting on August 7 in Litchfield.
• November weekend in North Conway at Red Jacket. Members are urged to attend.

Chief Murray for the Legislative Committee reported on the legislation that was addressed this year and highlighted the accomplishments. He also listed the areas of concern that may manifest itself next session.

Chief LeClaire lauded Chief Murray’s efforts as Legislative Chair.

Chief Carrier, for the Professional Development Committee reported on the August meeting in Tilton with a professional development seminar on mens’ health.

Fire Standards & Training Director Richard Mason reported on the following:

• Explorers graduated their academy recently.
• 32 golf participants today. Responsible for a $200 donation to American Cancer Society.
• Maintenance position is open at NHFA. Need applicants.
• Bureau Chief Rosolen appointed to Pro Board directors.
• Addition ahead of schedule and under budget.

Chief Sue Prentiss of the Bureau of EMS reported on:

• New research and quality management coordinator on board.
• First responder certification questions/proposals.

State Fire Marshal William Degnan reported on the following:

• Draft of State Fire Code almost complete. Review by mid-September.
• NFPA seminar in October on NFPA 54.
• E-85 (ethanol) coming soon. Looking into listings as related to code, etc.

Chief Brad Simpkins reported on the average level of brush activity of late due to the rains. Out of state activity picked up recently with a crew to California today. So far this year, 41 people have been sent out of state. He also stated that a new program assistant has been hired. The ranger staff needs to be filled and they are working on that currently. He also listed activities with the NE Fire Compact.

He also spoke of the legislation passed this session and the penalties that will be incurred in the fall for non-compliance. Weekend training will happen in September and flyers will be going out soon.

Chief Lambert, for the Building Code Review Board, stated that they were off for the summer and that there was a sub committee working on code review. He reported on an appeal heard in June and the details (relative to residential sprinklers), that was remanded to the FMO for appeal.

Chief Christopoulos reported that two people have applied for the position on the board subsequent to the law passage, and that an appointment will be discussed at the BOD meeting August 7.

Chief Lambert was also recognized as the new President of the New England Association of Fire Chiefs. He reported on activities of the association and the conference for 2008. He also stated that former Hooksett Chief, now Norwood, MA Chief Mike Howard is now the Chair of the Exhibit Committee.

Chief Carrier, for the NEDIAFC, reported on FRI in Atlanta August 23-25 and the seminars being offered this year. Thursday will be the New England luncheon and Friday night will be New Hampshire night in the hospitality night. He also reported on seminars proposed for this year to be sponsored by the Division.

Bob Duval, for the NFPA, reported on the annual conference that was held in Boston and upcoming training that they are sponsoring. He also indicated that all New England states are now “fire-safe cigarette” states.

Deputy Chief Steve Achilles, for the EMS Trauma Board stated that a summit will be held on the subject of diversion.

Under New Business, Fire Marshal William Degnan made a MOTION (seconded by Chief Murray) to send a letter of support for the appointment of James Burns to the Chair of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Motion carried unanimously.

Chief Murray made a MOTION (seconded by Chief LeClaire) to appropriate $500 for the purpose of supporting the hospitality room at FRI in Atlanta in August. He explained the networking value of supporting the activity and stressed the positive aspects of the interaction. Chief Thibeault expounded on the benefits also. Discussion ensued. Motion carried unanimously.

Good and welfare. Chief Bradley asked about the Firefighters’ Memorial brick, and it was stated that it was to be brought up in August.

The meeting was adjoined at 2046 hours.

Respectfully submitted,

Chief Brent T. Lemire, ret.
Secretary, NHAFC