Williams, Marian Ltr - Fire and Police ReductionsMarian Wiliams
1120 Savanna Dr.
Dubuque,. IA 52003
I am here as a concerned citizen regarding cutting police and fire departments.
A great concern originally was in closing the Grandview and Rhomberg Fire
Stations. Now I just hope we have enough people to really man the fire stations
as necessary. I understand we have several positions in both departments that
have unfilled positions. If these positions are not filled that is about the same as
a layoff.
With several staff in the service now and some resigning, that leaves too many
unfilled positions for the community. Plus, are we able to have the necessary
support staff? Will the departments be able to fill those positions as necessary?
The Fire Department and the Police Department need staff other than those in
the cars or trucks. So does the public at large.
What about ambulance services? Will there be enough staff to operate them as
necessary? Unfortunately, I have had to use them twice and really appreciated
the fact that there were knowledgeable personnel and enough staff to do what
was necessary.
On TV recently it was said that a layoff would hurt employees, their wives and
children. It didn't mention the community at large. All aspects of a layoff must
be considered.
Another thing, home owners in the county pay higher insurance. Well, if we are
operating with less staff in emergency vehicles, possibly our insurance will
increase in the city limits, also.
Most of us try to save a little money for emergencies. Better known as a 'rainy
day fund'. When necessary we have to use it. At a later date we try to replace
the money. Shouldn't it be the same with the City of Dubuque? Couldn't the
money in the 'undesignated reserve fund' be used? I feel this is not only a rainy
day but a rainy year and maybe it is time to use some of that money.
Thank you for taking time to listen.