COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
TO: Honorable Mayor and Council
FROM: Bobbie J. Kimelton, Director of Human Resources
SUBJECT:Title
Action: Firefighter/Paramedic Apprentice Program Contract with Kaden Cesena (Bobbie Kimelton)
Body
FUNDING SOURCE:
General Fund
PURPOSE:
To consider the approval of a Firefighter/Paramedic Apprentice Program Contract.
BACKGROUND
The creation of the Firefighter/Paramedic Apprenticeship Program is intended to provide the opportunity for individuals with no directly related skills to prepare for a career within the Fire Department, tailored for individuals interested in pursuing a career in the fire emergency medical service. This program provides the participants with the opportunity to gain practical and educational experience to assume this role while developing essential skills in a structured environment. Participation in the program is limited to four years with a possible one-year extension. Participants must successfully complete all education and participation requirements established by the program. Failure to successfully progress may result in removal from the program and termination of the contract. While serving as an apprentice, selected candidates will interact with professional members of the Lake Havasu City Fire Department and will receive both formal and informal mentorship from fire service professionals.
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
The Firefighter/Paramedic Apprenticeship Program combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to recruit, build and retain individuals in preparation for an important, highly skilled career as Firefighter/Paramedic. The establishment of this program will create a labor pipeline providing an opportunity for young adults to remain in Lake Havasu City and to master the skills and competencies required to enter this occupation. This program will include partnerships with the local hospital as well as local, state, and community colleges to ensure that the training received by participants in the Apprenticeship Program embody the industry standards for the profession.
FISCAL IMPACT:
$65,675 per year plus benefits for a period not to exceed five years. Funding is allocated and available in the Fire Department, General Fund budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26. For FY 2026-27, and every year thereafter, the salary is eligible for wage increases based on attainment of practical skills and education requirements, if the Apprentice is progressing satisfactorily through the program.
ATTACHMENTS:
Firefighter/Paramedic Apprenticeship Program Contract with Kaden Cesena
Apprentice Firefighter/Paramedic Program 2025-2026
SUGGESTED MOTION:Recommended ACtion
I move to approve and authorize the City Manager to execute the Firefighter/Paramedic Apprentice Program Contract with Kaden Cesena and further authorize the City Manager to renew the Contract for four, one-year terms.