“Our Contentment, Others Resentment”

       The economic crisis our country is experiencing and its impact will touch every citizen in one way shape or form.  It will effect most in very serious ways many quite negatively, some very few, as always will find a way to profit or benefit in such times.

     As public servants we will feel many of the same constraints and hardships as those in the private sector and our home values and ability to borrow money will be likewise influenced.

     When jobs are scarce and many industries contract their growth, job security, wages and benefits are all very hard to come by.  It is exactly at these times that one can more appreciate some of the aspects of our jobs that in a booming economy we usually take for granted.  That said; the attention and focus and awareness of what our collective bargaining agreements provide will be even more scrutinized.  Thus providing fertile ground for criticism and ignorant comparisons to those who do not enjoy some of the benefits we have earned and fought for.

     It will be that much more important that we be responsible with our rhetoric, informed and experienced at the negotiating table and in tune with the political climate as well as being prepared to address even the most veiled attacks on our safety and well being.

     While we have experienced success with regard to contractual benefits, wages and work schedules, we have considerable work ahead of us.  It is important that we not only live and work responsibly.  We must project that image of community oriented and necessary and relevant citizens of the community.

     Hardships for many of us will be relative to those we serve and protect.  It will take an understanding, considerate and educated approach to maximize our ability to negotiate as well as minimize the misconception that somehow we are unaffordable or “burden” the taxpayer.

     Make no mistake, we should apologize to no one as to the agreements we live by.  We must be cognizant, however, that as the number of people who do not enjoy similar benefits grows ,so will the efforts to undermine all that we have earned and deserve.

     So perhaps at no time in our history should we be more attentive to detail and prepared to represent our interests in the most professional of manner.  Therefore the best and brightest among us must be willing to get, be and stay involved and informed. 

   Question and listen, understand and digest, and then educate and deliver an argument that will withstand the current economic times and sustain a fires service that continues to sustain and support its community.

            “It is not enough to just take a position. One must defend it in good times and bad.” __ Anonymous.