This letter to was submitted by John Freeman. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent BenitoLink or other affiliated contributors. Lea este artículo en español aquí.
After attending the San Juan Bautista City Town Hall on Saturday, February 22 focused on Fire Prevention Services, I have four questions for the County Board of Supervisors.
Why are the Hollister Fire Department and the Fire Chief frozen out of the contract deliberations for a new fire service contract?
The fire department and Fire Chief are the experts who authoritatively inform the negotiating committee about what a certain amount of funding provides the citizens of the county and cities. These are the experts in the field of fire and safety. This exclusion is not only concerning but also undermines the interest of our communities. They know which types of equipment and personnel are necessary to have an adequate fire and safety rescue service. They can give us the costs of upgraded equipment as well as adequate salary schedules to attract appropriate personnel.
Why are the representatives from the City of San Juan Bautista being sidelined in the contract negotiations?
This exclusion is again concerning and undermines the interests of our community. San Juan Bautista is one of the three jurisdictions involved in the fire services contract negotiations. San Juan Bautista provides a fire station, a fire engine as well as money to house fire services personnel. The City of San Juan Bautista is NOT being subsidized by the County of San Benito. In fact the majority of calls from our station go to the county.
Why are the vital negotiations for the fire services contract negotiations happening “behind closed doors?”
Transparency is crucial for public trust, and it’s important that the whole community is aware of the discussions affecting their safety.
Is there a potential conflict of interest between representatives of the City of Hollister and the representatives from San Benito County?
It is crucial to address any concerns aboutSupervisor Valesquez’s allegedly subsidizing the campaigns of both of the Hollister councilpersons involved in these negotiations, to ensure transparency and maintain trust in the negotiation process.
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The post PUBLIC LETTER: Four questions for the County of San Benito concerning fire protection appeared first on BenitoLink.