North Walton Fire Public Hearing

[Bob Hudson]

Bob,
Was this a form/ survey that was filled out anonymously? How many, if it was a survey, were filled out and returned?

There was a facilitator who lead the discussion. During breaks I talked to most of the NWFD personnel and they were candid and straight forward about their concerns. Staffing and equipment were at the top of their list both in the meeting and outside.

 

[Bob Hudson]

More specifically Bob Hudson, how many fire/ems said

Most fire chiefs earn their position by working their way through the ranks of the department. The chief complaint I've heard repeatedly is that Bobby Martin had no experience in fire/ems before being given the job and has only completed the first level of fire/ems training ....yet, there are people within that department that have been there for years and completed all levels of training unable to advance.

I posted the list of all who participated. You can add them up !

 

[Bob Wells]

There was a facilitator who lead the discussion. During breaks I talked to most of the NWFD personnel and they were candid and straight forward about their concerns. Staffing and equipment were at the top of their list both in the meeting and outside.

That is interesting. Thanks for your involvement.

 

[Bob Hudson]

Bob

I must admit that I have no detailed knowledge of how to staff a fire service. I relied on Rick Talbert to help me understand those issues. I know budgets and revenues & expenses.

There was plenty of "Fire expertise" in that meeting.

 

[Kaydence]

Bobby Martin has been at least an EMS Supervisor since I started working Walton County EMS in 2000.

And completed 1 level of training? Wow.

 

[Danny Glidewell]

Bobby Martin has been with Walton County EMS since at least 1984 or 85. He started on a truck as an EMT and has worked his way up. He has always been highly regarded as a paramedic and he would be on the short list of people I would want to pick me up in case of a health emergency. He has been with Fire Rescue since they consolidated and has always fought for his people. He and I disagreed more than once when I was at the Sheriff's Office because he protected the interests of his department and I protected the interests of mine. I have a great deal of respect for him and his professionalism.

 

[Bob Wells]

And completed 1 level of training? Wow.

But technically speaking you were incorrect in your post, did not indicate anything else.

 

[Bob Wells]

Bob

I must admit that I have no detailed knowledge of how to staff a fire service. I relied on Rick Talbert to help me understand those issues. I know budgets and revenues & expenses.

There was plenty of "Fire expertise" in that meeting.

I understand. Thanks

 

[Kaydence]

But technically speaking you were incorrect in your post, did not indicate anything else.

17 years or better with Fire/ems and completed 1 level of training. Again just WOW!