Fire Board candidate questions opponent’s accusations
To the editor:
My name is John Cammick and I’ve been involved with the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District for the last 18 years, first as a volunteer fireman and then as a Fire Commissioner.
During this election period my opponent for Fire Commission, Jamie Brush, has made a number of unsubstantiated charges against the Fire Commission.
Beginning at the September meeting of the Greater Pine Island Civic Association and again in her biography that appeared in the Eagle article, Ms. Brush claims she will expose “backroom” deals.
Every member of the Fire Commission serves the best interests of the people of Pine Island and Matlacha as a volunteer without pay. Alleging “backroom” deals is an unfair, and a serious accusation to make.
I would ask Ms. Brush to please disclose the “backroom” deals she’s been referring to?
Ms. Brush has also stated: “From what I’ve gathered from our community, the biggest issue facing our district is the exuberant tax and millage increases. My opponent is no stranger to tax increases and in the past has continued to push for higher millage even though taxpayers voted wholeheartedly against it.”
In March of 2016, a referendum was added to the ballot whether to increase the millage rate for the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District. As a result voters approved the referendum and the millage rate was increased.
The benefits of the new millage rate to the communities of Pine Island and Matlacha are many.
First, by the time this letter is printed, the new Fire Station in Matlacha will have celebrated a groundbreaking. This new station will greatly increase the response time for Matlacha, Matlacha Isles and Cape Royal residents. In addition, the location of the fire station will also decrease homeowners ISO (Insurance Services Offices) rates. The millage funds also replaced outdated fire engines, extraction tools and bunker gear.
I would ask Ms. Brush what she means by “frivolous budget decisions’ and where she would make the cuts she’s referring to?
Finally, a number of times Ms. Brush has alleged that she will represent the community “and not her own interests” and that “When I make decisions it’s not because I think it will secure a deal for my business later on?”
Once again, these are very serious charges. In my 20-year association with the department I have never heard of any commission member acting in their own best interests and/or their business benefiting from any decisions on the commission.
I would ask Ms. Brush who’s businesses benefitted and how by decisions made by the Fire Commission?
My position as M/PIFCD Fire Commissioner has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and working with my fellow commissioners, Chief Mickuleit, Deputy Chief Brant, staff and firefighters continues to be so.
During my time as Fire Commissioner I held steadfast against the city of Cape Coral’s improper annexation. I supported the commercial “off-the-shelf” procurement of new fire trucks resulting in a 50 percent cost reduction to taxpayers. I’ve been engaged in the successful negotiation of several firefighter union contracts resulting in high satisfaction and service.
I would love to continue to continue to serve as your voice on the Fire Board. A voice that echoes your concerns. A voice that matters. A voice that cares.
Thank you,
John Cammick
Matlacha