Lots of unanswered questions regarding fire department changes

Bay City Times staff By Bay City Times staff
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on January 31, 2010 at 11:42 AM

Voice: Edward Rosinski, Bay City

I think it is a shame the city leaders have put themselves in a position where they have to gamble with citizens’ lives. It is understandable the city is hurting for money. Every person in this community has felt the effects of our economy. I can even understand the fire department’s decision not to staff Station 5 with firemen or an engine. What I do not understand is why they have “extra” firemen at Station 1. 

Are eastside residents more important than westside residents? Why not save the money and use this manpower in the summer when bridges are an issue and put them at Station 5? If Station 5 residents cannot have fire protection, why not at least contract with Bay Med and put ambulances there to make an effort to shorten response times on medical emergencies? They are more than 70 percent of fire department runs. 

The people in the south end should take note. Station 2 is next. The money problems are going to get worse before they get better. I do give some of our commissioners credit who wanted a “paid on call” fire department. They managed to get it. Its now called “mutual aid” and credit to Bangor Township for figuring it out. 

Which brings up another good question. How do they manage their fires on their own most of the time? What happens when we have to provide mutual aid? Who covers our city while we are out in county? Am I the only one that has thought about this? 

Why don’t all city workers take a small pay cut to keep services? Why not take furlough days? Lots of questions. Few if any answers.