— by Frank and Jan Loudin —
One of the joys of living on Orcas Island is knowing that, in case of emergency, we have dedicated, hard working, experienced, community-minded, accountable OIFR!
Considering some of the opposition to the levy, we’ve observed that like any fine piece of equipment, the purchase and ownership of the Fire Department’s equipment are only the beginning. Maintenance and service are the answer to prolonged value and those costs increase with passing time.
Join us in supporting the OIFR for our mutual support. VOTE YES FOR THE LEVY!
With so many islanders willing to risk life and limb as volunteers…it makes me ashamed! What if we had to pay them all a salary like most towns and cities must. I guess we would be sorry then… Let’s show a little caring and a little maturity and vote YES for a wonderful OIFR! Merry
Your maturity comment struck home as my wife often says I behave like a four year old. The maintenance issue is a red herring as this equipment doesn’t get that many miles. The logic that because we have a large volunteer force it justifies a bloated staff escapes me. The fact is that the last levy built 2 halls bought a third and bought all new equipment and this levy is the same amount must mean that we have a much larger payroll as a huge chunk of the last levy was for the aforementioned items. Of course the chief wants more help. Wouldn’t you if someone else was paying for it?
What a group of whiners we have. If your place was under emergency, fire or other, wouldn’t you want the best and most of crew and attention to rescue whatever need there was. Service is a needed commodity. All you no increase in the levy funds whiners better get your sorry butts out on the line day or night any time the call comes in for service. I’m glad all the area volunteers are at hand, I need them. So do you. We are taking care of each other here, friends and neighbors alike.