Packet: Tiffin City Council Work Session (05/05/2026)

City of Tiffin Fire Department | Interim Fire Chief Proposal | Tom Hartshorn Interim Fire Chief Compensation Proposal – City of Tiffin, Iowa Compensation Structure • Monthly Retainer: $4,000 • Take home vehicle (command car) • Structure reflects executive-level leadership responsibilities rather than task-based work • No request for healthcare, pension, or long-term benefits • Initial term 3-6 months, optional extension based on mutual agreement Defined Scope of Work • Stabilize department operations and leadership • Assess personnel and organizational structure • Strengthen communication and culture • Support administrative functions and operational efficiency • Strengthen relationships with mutual aid partners • Assist with strategic planning and transition to permanent Fire Chief Time Expectations & Availability • Estimated commitment: 12–18 hours per week • Includes in-station presence, meetings, training oversight, and leadership engagement • Availability outside scheduled hours for: – Emergency response and incident command – Phone consultation, after-hours communication, and administrative work • Ongoing accessibility to City leadership, officers, and personnel beyond office hours Authority & Role Expectations • Full operational authority consistent with the role of Fire Chief • Alignment with City leadership on major decisions while maintaining day-to-day command authority Summary This compensation structure reflects the responsibility, accessibility, and leadership required to stabilize and guide the department during this interim period. The focus is on delivering immediate organizational impact, improving reliability and culture, and positioning the department for long-term success.