Here are some of the items the...

Here are some of the items the council discussed Monday night.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES FEE INCREASE

The City Council approved an ordinance that would raise the costs

of basic emergency services to pay for the increased costs of

operating the Huntington Beach Fire Department

The new measure would pay for 17 new firefighter positions and CPR

training among other things. Councilwoman Pam Julien Houchen was

absent.

WHAT IT MEANS

The cost for certain medical treatment administered by certain

city departments will now increase. The cost for transportation will

go up 9%, the cost for mileage will increase by 5% and the cost for

oxygen administration will rise 4%. Typically, the costs will be

absorbed by health insurance, excluding individuals without any

medical coverage.

Huntington Beach Fire Chief Duane Olson said the rise in costs

were similar to other rates in surrounding areas.

SCHOOL ROUTE IMPROVEMENTS

The City Council authorized Director of Public Works Bob Beardsley

to implement the Safe Routes to Schools Grant provided by the

California Department of Health Services. The grant is awarded to

California cities that make commitments to improving pedestrian

access to area schools. Matching funds will be taken from the Traffic

Impact Fee Fund.

Councilwoman Pam Julien Houchen was absent.

WHAT IT MEANS

School routes running along Palm and Adams avenues from 14th to

17th streets will be made safer for kids walking to and from school.

The improved routes will serve Smith Elementary and Dwyer Middle

schools.

Public Works Engineer Doug Koto said the money will fund

improvements to the street for the visually impaired, new school

crossing signs and a traffic signal.