— from Art Lange —
I am writing to recommend Wes Heinmiller to you as a candidate for Fire Commissioner. Wes is an accomplished business owner and an active member of our community. He is bright, energetic and honest, qualities that are critical for elected officials representing us all.
Wes is committed to OIFR’s existing model of “neighbors helping neighbors.” He also has a solid understanding of the critical priorities facing Orcas Island Fire and Rescue:
- spending taxpayer monies in a fiscally responsible manner
- maintaining high quality training for all our career and volunteer responders
- making responder and citizen safety always paramount
- maintaining our present high rating with the Washington Survey and Ratings Bureau which significantly reduces our insurance premiums
Wes is focused on how to continue to maintain a high level of service. He would be a fresh, positive and analytical set of eyes on the Board of Commissioners. He has no agenda or ulterior motives other than to ensure that the members of our community are served well and that we can all be assured that we are safer with OIFR available 24/7 when we need them.
Please consider voting for Wes Heinmiller as our Fire Commissioner.
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I support Dr. Lange’s letter of recommendation for Wes Heinmiller as the next fire commissioner. Wes is a successful businessman and also a connected community member. With only three commissioners on this board, the commissioner who takes over Clyde Duke’s position will need to posses a good business sense and fully understand what it takes to maintain a budget that is primarily funded by the community. We also need a commissioner who recognizes the unique and diverse community in which Orcas Island Fire and Rescue provides service. This is OUR fire district, and it is up to US to ensure that the next fire commissioner is one who is deeply rooted in the community while understanding how to deliver cost effective service. As a volunteer firefighter, I count on our commissioners to oversee the complexities of the OIFR. While he has not been a firefighter or EMT, I feel very comfortable with Wes joining Barbara and Jim in providing their combined insights and direction to the chief and our professional staff to assure our effectiveness. I strongly encourage you to vote for Wes.