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Emergency Services Director John King reviewed the memo dated June 28, 2004. He noted that at the last public hearing the Board and the County Administrator made several observations regarding the proposed amendments to the Code. The proposed ordinance before them today has those recommended changes incorporated. Those changes are “bulleted” in the memorandum and staff was present to respond to any questions about the proposed amendments to the ordinance. In responding to Commissioner Lowther’s concern that this amendment appeared to add another layer of government, Director King stated that the new language gives Emergency Services the authority to put a stop to an activity that might result in endangering neighboring properties of someone who refuses to meet requirements. In response to Commissioner Adams, Director King stressed that language concerning burning mulch has been tightened up and gives the Board the authority to put an absolute stop to that activity when the owner is “playing between lines” on regulations. He also specified that the $30 permits for special events do not cover costs but provide that fire prevention personnel will do a general inspection for anything covered in the Fire Prevention Code. Fire Prevention Bureau Chief Dale Justice specified there would be a need for inspection for a large event where there is a life safety issue, usually where many people will be attending, or a set up in an auditorium or other enclosure from which an emergency escape might be necessary. This is already being done for the Firefighters’ Fair and St. Helen’s Harvest Festival. Events such as these, indoors and outdoors, are looked at from a “life-safety” standpoint. Using fire codes as a basis can help ensure the safety of our community. There have been no accidents yet but problems have been discovered and corrected. Chairman Ginn was concerned above giving authority to enter private property without an owner’s consent, and Chief Justice pointed out that covers HAZMAT emergencies only. Director King added that under the Fourth Amendment, the fire service is one of the few public safety agencies allowed the right of entry without a warrant, but it has to be an exigent July 6, 2004 18