— from Marla Johns, Public Information Officer for the Orcas Fire and Rescue District —

The results of an internal review of former Chief Miklos Preysz, performed by Consultants from Bellingham Mediation and Consulting group, were recently released to the public following a public records request.

It is not the policy of Orcas Island Fire and Rescue to release information pertaining to personnel issues, nor was it the intent of the Commissioners for the investigation to be public record in this case. The review was originally protected by attorney client privilege; but the privilege no longer applied in this case once the employee consented to its release to an outside entity.

For many years, Miklos Preysz served the community of Orcas Island as a paramedic. His efforts can be credited with saving countless lives and for providing quality care to many more. As a Department, we are standing together in honoring his years of service to the community and in looking toward the future. We ask that the community support the staff, volunteers and Commissioners in moving forward as a strong and united organization.

Orcas Island Fire and Rescue is committed to our mission to “protect life, property, and the environment through Emergency Medical Services, Fire/Rescue Services, and Public Education in a cost effective manner.”

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