To the Editor:
Among the more preposterous extrapolations I have ever heard concerning public safety is that the obvious districtwide need for a dedicated medic unit is nullified because the EMS levy’s pro-position writer has properties down the street from FD4 assets. (Letters, May 28 Tribune). Permit me to offer a reality check. The EMS levy is an entirely reasonable ask. FD4 would be entirely justified seeking to double on-duty staffing right now. Read. The. Reports.
FD4’s response times and alarm concurrency numbers clearly illustrate the need and the fact that they’ve been behind the eight ball for years. Their exemplary planning and stewardship are bearing fruit.
Capital expenditures are not coequal with personnel budgets. The city and FD4 cleaning up some real estate transactions hardly equates to largess for FD4. They’ve made the prudent choice to continue with forward-looking, long overdue infrastructure upgrades. The ladder truck will cost two million dollars.
It would behoove FD4 to get ahead of errant narratives because error begets error. It is preposterous to suggest that state law constrains FD4 commissioners, brass, or staff from speaking truthfully. We can’t have facts compromised because staff is spooked by a handful of individuals who view transparent advocacy as electioneering. It’s not. Please vote yes.
Paul Keller
Inmate, Stafford Creek Corrections Center, Aberdeen
Formerly of Snohomish County
