San Carlos Squares Things with RC Fire Department

The San Carlos Fire Department made good on its debt to its counterpart in Redwood City thanks to the San Carlos City Council approving payment up to $400,000 for Redwood City's willingness to help San Carlos man its fire department.

San Carlos remains at a deficit of personnel and will continue to need Redwood City's help in staffing. The agreement between Redwood City and San Carlos called for Redwood City to take over managerial services.

That deficit grew to seven vacancies Monday when it was learned two San Carlos firefighters turned in their resignations.

One of the vacancies will be filled within a week and two others need only to complete training in a Fire Academy, which is expected by January.

Mayor Matt Grocett recommended that a committee be put together to address the issue while city staff will create proposals for long term solutions.

"This is a significant topic," Grocett said.

Other tidbits from Monday night's City Council meeting:

* City Councilman Mark Olbert proposed the elimination of the process fee for neighborhood block party permits. The proposal passed unanimously.

* The council voted to authorize the reappointment of Maryann McLaughlin to the Arts & Culture Commission. Her term will run through May 27, 2015.

* The council will consider the awarding of grants to organizations that support local, affordable housing programs and projects.

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