1. Emergency Services Department Planning DiscussionCity of Otsego│13400 90th Street NE, Otsego, MN 55330│Tel. (763) 441-4414 Fax (763) 441-9163
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Daryl Rausch, Emergency Services Director
DATE: July 31, 2023
SUBJECT: Emergency Services Department
On Monday, Council and staff will begin the Otsego Emergency Services Department development.
The goal of the planned City Council workshop is to facilitate a targeted discussion on the
establishment of a municipal fire, rescue, and EMS response department. Staff will lead the
workshop and oversee the discussion on various crucial subjects pertaining to the new
department. I have developed an outline of discussion topics below. Please note that the
information presented during this meeting is for discussion only and that nothing is final or set in
stone at this point of the process. Staff would only be asking for Council direction on the items
below to move the department forward effectively and efficiently.
Capabilities and Capacities
This subject will focus on determining the scope and range of services the new emergency
department will offer. It will involve assessing the needs of the community, understanding the
potential emergencies the department may face, and identifying the required resources and
equipment to address those emergencies effectively.
Image and Identity
Developing a positive image and identity for the emergency service department is crucial. This
segment of the workshop will explore how to promote the department as a reliable, responsive,
and trustworthy entity within the community. This may include discussing branding,
communication strategies, and community engagement.
Staffing
Staffing is a critical aspect of any emergency service department. During the workshop,
participants will discuss the required number of personnel, the necessary qualifications and
training for various roles, recruitment strategies, and employee retention plans.
Apparatus and Facility Plans
In this part of the discussion, the focus will be on the necessary equipment and apparatus the
department will need to effectively respond to emergencies. Additionally, consideration will be
Item 1.
City of Otsego│13400 90th Street NE, Otsego, MN 55330│Tel. (763) 441-4414 Fax (763) 441-9163
given to the design and location of the department's facilities to optimize response times and
operational efficiency.
Overall, the workshop will provide a platform for City Council members, Chief Rausch, and other
stakeholders to exchange ideas, gather insights, and make informed decisions regarding the
establishment of the Otsego Emergency Service Department. Through these discussions, the aim is
to create a comprehensive plan that ensures the safety and well -being of the community through
timely and effective emergency responses.