Fire and police chiefs report staffing changes, mutual‑aid funeral support and new police firearms qualifications

Fire and police department leaders updated the board on staffing, incident reporting and training.

The fire department reported one firefighter resignation (accepting a position with another protection district) and noted three applicants for the vacancy; staff said one applicant already accepted another offer and two candidates will be interviewed. Fire personnel also assisted other agencies with planning and logistics for a line‑of‑duty funeral held in the region, and staff praised their participation.

Fire leadership told the board the department currently reports incidents using the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS), a system that dates to 1976 and has not been substantially updated in many years. Missouri is among the first states switching to a new national reporting program; the department expects to transition in August and anticipates clearer, more informative reports on call types.

The police report said July 4 was relatively quiet but noted an 18‑year‑old was issued a summons for fireworks after officers responded to Branca Park. The police chief also described department training and qualifications on new 9mm handguns equipped with red‑dot sights; the department’s average qualification score was 96 percent and four officers scored a perfect qualification.

No formal personnel actions were taken during the meeting; staffing changes reported were informational and recruitment is ongoing.