Stop Ambulance Fees
Vote Against Question A
MCVFRA Calls Budget Proposals
Cynical and Retaliatory,
Vows to Work with Council on
More Responsible Approach
October 6, 2010 --- Rockville, Maryland —The Montgomery County Volunteer Fire-Rescue Association strongly opposes the budget reductions proposed yesterday by County Executive Isiah Leggett. According to MCVFRA President Marcine Goodloe:
The County Executive’s proposed budget reductions are a cynical and transparent attempt to scare voters in advance of the November 2 election. Instead of working thoughtfully with the County Council and stakeholders, Mr. Leggett has proposed cuts in front-line services and employees without serious consideration of proposals that would reduce or defer less important activities such as reductions in staff travel, conference participation, administrative expenses, and reductions in outside contractor expenses.
We believe the loss of projected ambulance fees can be addressed without lay-offs or furloughs of front-line fire/rescue personnel. We reject the Executive’s attempt to make this a career vs. volunteer issue and stand ready to work with the Council, International Association of Firefighters Local 1664 and others on a more thoughtful and responsible approach.
We also believe some of the cuts directed at the local fire/rescue departments, including potential legal action by the County Attorney, are in direct retaliation for our efforts to give voters a say on ambulance fees in November. We are disappointed but not surprised that the Executive would pursue such divisive tactics, but we remain steadfast in our opposition to ambulance fees and our willingness to work constructively with the Council and others on a more responsible approach than that proposed by the County Executive.