I am writing this letter in response to the article in last
Tuesday’s paper in which Mr. Bruscia attacked the firefighters for
their overtime budget.
Dear Editor:
I am writing this letter in response to the article in last Tuesday’s paper in which Mr. Bruscia attacked the firefighters for their overtime budget.
Chief Garringer is proposing a staffing plan that would save $65,000 in overtime costs. If “Mayor” Bruscia is so concerned about overtime costs, maybe he can set aside his ignorance and arrogance and sit down with Mr. Quilter and the chief so he has a complete, thorough understanding of their staffing and budget process.
The fire department was seriously underfunded during last fiscal year, that is why they are now over budget in overtime pay, not because they are abusing overtime practices.
According to National Fire Protection Association, the department is understaffed in serving a city of this size. And to repeat again, yes, when a captain or an engineer takes time off, they are replaced with another captain or engineer. These positions are earned in the fire department through continued education, testing and qualifications, not just given to anyone. When there is a fire or incident, the captain is responsible for the coordination of manpower at the scene. Would you, the public, want a qualified captain making sure your property is being protected or saved from fire? A qualified engineer makes sure that the water is being pumped correctly.
What an asinine statement to make that someone would take the day off so their “buddy” can rack up some overtime. Do you honestly think someone is going to take the day off for the sole purpose of making sure their co-worker can make some OT?
Mr. Bruscia, all you’ve done is created animosity within the city toward our firefighters. It is a sad state of affairs when the mayor will publicly admit that he will attempt to “humiliate” city personnel in the local paper. You stated that you don’t care what people think about your comments, well you better start caring. Your arrogant comments and convoluted mindset are not going to help us move forward, but only divide and misguide the people of Hollister.
Please support all of our public servants
Mishel Thomas,
Hollister
