Fire Dept Chief Car Perks

[Overtaxed payer]

With the escalating cost of everything lately, particularly related to fuel costs, why is there the need for a fire chief (from Great River for example) to drive a taxpayer subsidized fire department vehicle for personal usage to/from work in Bethpage for a number of years?
It's not like he is going to be leaving work in Bethpage to respond to an emergency in Great River during working hours?

It certainly shouldn't be justified for being "on call" just because he is a fire chief, even when it is known that he will not be responding to calls in Great River during working hours all the way from Bethpage.
And their personal usage of fire depatment vehicles should likewise not be erroneously tried to be justified on the ridiculous basis of "needing to be available on the way TO or FROM work". Come on - They can easily drive to and from work in their own personal vehicle, particularly if their job is a great distance from the fire department that they are in, and then once home (presumably located within the fire district that they are a chief in) can utilize the fire department vehicle to respond to emergencies.

I wouldn't be surprised to learn that this kind of thing is unfortunately fairly commonplace across Long Island.

Does they also have the temerity to submit expenses to the fire department (and effectively subsequently the taxpayer) for the fuel cost for the mileage driven to/from work that has nothing to do with supporting fire department related activities? What about the vehicular maintenance costs that are incurred as a result of driving such distance to/from work?

What is going on here?
Why isn't the media highlighting this issue and making it a point to investigate this further and ask questions about this in all fire departments across Long Island?

I'm sick and tired of everyone in various taxing entities & districts continually & wrongfully thinking that the taxpayer is just some unending source of revenue, as if there is nothing wrong with thinking that way.
Give me a break. Enough already!!!

Un-be-f%&ing-lievable!!!!

[Unregisteredfew]

With the escalating cost of everything lately, particularly related to fuel costs, why is there the need for a fire chief (from Great River for example) to drive a taxpayer subsidized fire department vehicle for personal usage to/from work in Bethpage for a number of years?
It's not like he is going to be leaving work in Bethpage to respond to an emergency in Great River during working hours?

It certainly shouldn't be justified for being "on call" just because he is a fire chief, even when it is known that he will not be responding to calls in Great River during working hours all the way from Bethpage.
And their personal usage of fire depatment vehicles should likewise not be erroneously tried to be justified on the ridiculous basis of "needing to be available on the way TO or FROM work". Come on - They can easily drive to and from work in their own personal vehicle, particularly if their job is a great distance from the fire department that they are in, and then once home (presumably located within the fire district that they are a chief in) can utilize the fire department vehicle to respond to emergencies.

I wouldn't be surprised to learn that this kind of thing is unfortunately fairly commonplace across Long Island.

Does they also have the temerity to submit expenses to the fire department (and effectively subsequently the taxpayer) for the fuel cost for the mileage driven to/from work that has nothing to do with supporting fire department related activities? What about the vehicular maintenance costs that are incurred as a result of driving such distance to/from work?

What is going on here?
Why isn't the media highlighting this issue and making it a point to investigate this further and ask questions about this in all fire departments across Long Island?

I'm sick and tired of everyone in various taxing entities & districts continually & wrongfully thinking that the taxpayer is just some unending source of revenue, as if there is nothing wrong with thinking that way.
Give me a break. Enough already!!!

Un-be-f%&ing-lievable!!!!

You cant win that one dude. They cry and cry about how they get up at 3am....so they deserve a free car, free gas, and free insurance

[Unregisteredsad]

You cant win that one dude. They cry and cry about how they get up at 3am....so they deserve a free car, free gas, and free insurance

Thats all you can gripe about. Come on what do you think that actually adds up to for the guys six year term. They are already paying the insurance which is only about 400 for the year. Gas maybe 5000 for the year.However the school system and local goverments give out cars like no tomm. And those people are paid. Fire is not. Get a life

[Overtaxed payer]

Thats all you can gripe about. Come on what do you think that actually adds up to for the guys six year term. They are already paying the insurance which is only about 400 for the year. Gas maybe 5000 for the year.However the school system and local goverments give out cars like no tomm. And those people are paid. Fire is not. Get a life

To think that that it is somehow "OK" just because others are getting such ridiculous perks, despite the fact that they shouldn't be getting them in the first place, is, in and of itself, inherently wrong to begin with.
Two wrongs don't make a right.

Any free personal usage of cars should be eliminated for any school district, government body, or taxing district, particularly since the taxpayer should not be expected to be saddled with the costs associated with the personal usage just because that is "how it has always been". Period.

While there's no disputing that volunteer firefighters should get something for what they do - let's not forget that they do get a break on their taxes of at least 5% off (and maybe even as much as 15% off), as well get a pension when they reach retirement age, the last I recall there is a line item on the yearly tax statement for the fire district. There may likely be other perks or incentives available to them as well. As such, a taxpayer has every right to inquire about things like personal usage of something that is being subsidized by taxpayers.

Besides - they CHOSE to be firefighters - nobody was forcing them.

It's bad enough that most if not all civil service and school district jobs (which happen to be subsidized by taxpayers) come with pensions, pensions that many taxpayers who work in the private sector will not even be able to count on themselves when they retire, these jobs are also pretty secure (i.e hardly ever the contiunual pressure & worry associated with losing one's job), they have guaranteed annual raises (raises in private sector jobs are not guaranteed), and they have, for the most part, always had fairly minimal employee paid health care premiums (it is only recently where we are starting to finally hear about the school district employees kicking in more than in the past so as to become more in line with their private sector counterparts). Not to mention many of those have, are able to or will retire with pretty good health care coverage that they either don't have to pay for or will only need to pay a minimal amount for.

So, P-lease don't be trying to justify unnecessary perks, such as free personal usage of vehicles, that they reasonably shouldn't have in the first place when they are getting a pretty good deal as it is already, particularly with the undue burdens that taxpayers on LI are saddled with.

Enough is enough. The bleeding has to be stopped in all areas that the taxpayer subsidizes.

[gopaidknow]

To think that that it is somehow "OK" just because others are getting such ridiculous perks, despite the fact that they shouldn't be getting them in the first place, is, in and of itself, inherently wrong to begin with.
Two wrongs don't make a right.

Any free personal usage of cars should be eliminated for any school district, government body, or taxing district, particularly since the taxpayer should not be expected to be saddled with the costs associated with the personal usage just because that is "how it has always been". Period.

While there's no disputing that volunteer firefighters should get something for what they do - let's not forget that they do get a break on their taxes of at least 5% off (and maybe even as much as 15% off), as well get a pension when they reach retirement age, the last I recall there is a line item on the yearly tax statement for the fire district. There may likely be other perks or incentives available to them as well. As such, a taxpayer has every right to inquire about things like personal usage of something that is being subsidized by taxpayers.

Besides - they CHOSE to be firefighters - nobody was forcing them.

It's bad enough that most if not all civil service and school district jobs (which happen to be subsidized by taxpayers) come with pensions, pensions that many taxpayers who work in the private sector will not even be able to count on themselves when they retire, these jobs are also pretty secure (i.e hardly ever the contiunual pressure & worry associated with losing one's job), they have guaranteed annual raises (raises in private sector jobs are not guaranteed), and they have, for the most part, always had fairly minimal employee paid health care premiums (it is only recently where we are starting to finally hear about the school district employees kicking in more than in the past so as to become more in line with their private sector counterparts). Not to mention many of those have, are able to or will retire with pretty good health care coverage that they either don't have to pay for or will only need to pay a minimal amount for.

So, P-lease don't be trying to justify unnecessary perks, such as free personal usage of vehicles, that they reasonably shouldn't have in the first place when they are getting a pretty good deal as it is already, particularly with the undue burdens that taxpayers on LI are saddled with.

Enough is enough. The bleeding has to be stopped in all areas that the taxpayer subsidizes.


Disband the volunteers, go paid!

NY did it over 100 years ago!

What are we waiting on Long Island?

These guys are raping the taxpayers?

Its criminal?

Lets lock them up?

Got to call our elected representatives on this one!

[goldmember88]

There are plenty of FDNY personal that take vehicles home. Do they submit claims for their taxes? Are they in response range?

Instead of typing your complaints on a Forum, why dont you attend the next BOFC (Board of Fire Commissioners) meeting and ask these questions? You wont, for you are only another paid FF looking for a job closer to home.

[Carbuff]

There are plenty of FDNY personal that take vehicles home. Do they submit claims for their taxes? Are they in response range?

Instead of typing your complaints on a Forum, why dont you attend the next BOFC (Board of Fire Commissioners) meeting and ask these questions? You wont, for you are only another paid FF looking for a job closer to home.

I have personally attended BOFC meetings at 6 different districts here on Long Island and I can't say that my being at any of them would have changed anything.

At some of these meetings you can't even ask questions.

As for the FDNY, if they want them to take the cars home, then it's OK, they are getting a pay check. As long as they keep a mileage log and report any personal use on the 1040, there is no problem.

It's they same reasoning used by the Boards of Fire Commissioner, the boards want them to take the cars wherever they go. The only problem is, they are not getting a pay check. If the boards want them to drive the cars everywhere, then the mileage on personal usage should be reimbursed to the district, at the IRS per mile rate. I would like to hear from any fire cheif who has ever had to do this, or knows of any who ever had to.

[Overtaxed payer]

I have personally attended BOFC meetings at 6 different districts here on Long Island and I can't say that my being at any of them would have changed anything.

At some of these meetings you can't even ask questions.

As for the FDNY, if they want them to take the cars home, then it's OK, they are getting a pay check. As long as they keep a mileage log and report any personal use on the 1040, there is no problem.

It's they same reasoning used by the Boards of Fire Commissioner, the boards want them to take the cars wherever they go. The only problem is, they are not getting a pay check. If the boards want them to drive the cars everywhere, then the mileage on personal usage should be reimbursed to the district, at the IRS per mile rate. I would like to hear from any fire cheif who has ever had to do this, or knows of any who ever had to.

OK, if they don't even entertain questions at BOFC metings and yet they are very cognizant of the fact that taxpayers pay for fire districts through their taxes, then who, praytell, are the BOFCs accountable to? Nobody???? Certainly someone or some entity should be overseeing the BOFCs on behalf of taxpayers, because realistically how far is a taxpayer truly going to get if they tried to interface with the BOFCs on such issues like this. I would think not too far.

Also, out of curiousity, WHY is it that the boards would want them to drive the cars to their jobs which are many miles away from their fire district, especially when they aren't going to be responding to emergencies from a job that is far away? What possible reasonable & justifiable reason could be provided? I'm still not getting that one.

[Carbuff]

OK, if they don't even entertain questions at BOFC metings and yet they are very cognizant of the fact that taxpayers pay for fire districts through their taxes, then who, praytell, are the BOFCs accountable to? Nobody???? Certainly someone or some entity should be overseeing the BOFCs on behalf of taxpayers, because realistically how far is a taxpayer truly going to get if they tried to interface with the BOFCs on such issues like this. I would think not too far.

Also, out of curiousity, WHY is it that the boards would want them to drive the cars to their jobs which are many miles away from their fire district, especially when they aren't going to be responding to emergencies from a job that is far away? What possible reasonable & justifiable reason could be provided? I'm still not getting that one.

The reason they have given is that: "should they pass an emergency situation while on the road, then they will have the equipment necessary to deal with it.

As to whom has oversight of the BOFC's, that answer is only the voters. Like any elected official, once elected they make the decisions for us.

[Unregisteredjealously]

Me thinks somebody is either a jealous because they lost an election for a chiefs position, or a jealous captain or family of one, who doesnt get a car when chiefs go away.

[perkst]

Me thinks somebody is either a jealous because they lost an election for a chiefs position, or a jealous captain or family of one, who doesnt get a car when chiefs go away.

I would go with lost the election

[FF/EMT]

I have never run for chief, but I see a lot of abuse of the chief's cars. I'm increasingly getting the feeling I'm getting played for a fool. I'm doing this for free, while the people in charge are not.

[UnregisteredCUN*]

I have never run for chief, but I see a lot of abuse of the chief's cars. I'm increasingly getting the feeling I'm getting played for a fool. I'm doing this for free, while the people in charge are not.


How so? Did YOU pay for YOUR EMT? I'll bet you didnt. So now you have to go on calls. Im also willing to be you are either a paid EMT on the side, or trying to be one. Again, did YOU pay for it?

Shut up

[FF/EMT]

How so? Did YOU pay for YOUR EMT? I'll bet you didnt. So now you have to go on calls. Im also willing to be you are either a paid EMT on the side, or trying to be one. Again, did YOU pay for it?

Shut up

I did pay for my own EMS training. The fire training was on the county. I do work EMS on the side and find it a much better experience than volunteering. The chiefs that are abusing their positions take much of the pleasure out of the volunteer experience. They often come with attitudes like yours that can rationalize every abuse and convince themselves they are "serving" the community. The net result is that in some small way I feel I am supporting a criminal enterprise. Working as an EMT (in the right department) is a much more pleasant experience.

[UnregE DUM DUM]

I did pay for my own EMS training. The fire training was on the county. I do work EMS on the side and find it a much better experience than volunteering. The chiefs that are abusing their positions take much of the pleasure out of the volunteer experience. They often come with attitudes like yours that can rationalize every abuse and convince themselves they are "serving" the community. The net result is that in some small way I feel I am supporting a criminal enterprise. Working as an EMT (in the right department) is a much more pleasant experience.

You are so clueless you are so f!@#@!#@ woried about the chiefs vehicles. How about the depts that have 24 7 paid dispatchers when county already provides that free of charge. Lets see Patchogue, North Patchogue, Medford, Hagerman, Holbrook, Holtsville, Center Moriches. Now lets see three shifts a day @ 150.00 a shift= 450.00 a day x 365 = 164,250.00 per district per year for a service already provided for FREE. So for the districts I mentioned thats 1,149,750.00 dollars a year wasted!!! And you are worried about a chiefs vehicle! I am a chief and run my own businees basically in my district give or take 6 miles. However I rack up 18,000 miles a year on the taxpayer funded vehicle but I also make 90% of the alarms so should I not use that vehicle then dip shit.

[Carbuff]

You are so clueless you are so f!@#@!#@ woried about the chiefs vehicles. How about the depts that have 24 7 paid dispatchers when county already provides that free of charge. Lets see Patchogue, North Patchogue, Medford, Hagerman, Holbrook, Holtsville, Center Moriches. Now lets see three shifts a day @ 150.00 a shift= 450.00 a day x 365 = 164,250.00 per district per year for a service already provided for FREE. So for the districts I mentioned thats 1,149,750.00 dollars a year wasted!!! And you are worried about a chiefs vehicle! I am a chief and run my own businees basically in my district give or take 6 miles. However I rack up 18,000 miles a year on the taxpayer funded vehicle but I also make 90% of the alarms so should I not use that vehicle then dip shit.

Yes Chief, you are correct, there is a tremendous amount of waste. I think that's what a lot of the posts here are about, when they're not calling each other names.

However, the chiefs cars are part of the problem. Maybe there should be a limit, say 7 miles. A reasonable distance you could respond from. You would have to keep a mileage log, like the FDNY. But instead of reporting the mileage on your tax forms, you would have to reimburse the District for all mileage over the 7 mile limit from the district borders.

Who knows, that might stop you from driving the gas guzzler on a long trip, especially at 48.5 cents per mile.

You can't hide your own waste by pointing the finger at someone else's, that's really petty.

[FF/EMT]

You are so clueless you are so f!@#@!#@ woried about the chiefs vehicles. How about the depts that have 24 7 paid dispatchers when county already provides that free of charge. Lets see Patchogue, North Patchogue, Medford, Hagerman, Holbrook, Holtsville, Center Moriches. Now lets see three shifts a day @ 150.00 a shift= 450.00 a day x 365 = 164,250.00 per district per year for a service already provided for FREE. So for the districts I mentioned thats 1,149,750.00 dollars a year wasted!!! And you are worried about a chiefs vehicle! I am a chief and run my own businees basically in my district give or take 6 miles. However I rack up 18,000 miles a year on the taxpayer funded vehicle but I also make 90% of the alarms so should I not use that vehicle then dip shit.

I having no issue with chief's having vehicles. They need them. If you can make the alarms 6 miles out of district, more power to you. That seems like appropriate use and not abuse. What I'm talking about is filling up the chief's car at the district gas pump before taking off way out of district for vacations/personal use and not reporting any of this as income. That, I believe, is illegal. The dispatchers, agreed, are a waste, but there is nothing illegal about it. My only point is that as a low level volunteer, it is not very motivational to see the leadership of my department engaged in criminal activity.

[Unregisteredfqwfe]

You are so clueless you are so f!@#@!#@ woried about the chiefs vehicles. How about the depts that have 24 7 paid dispatchers when county already provides that free of charge. Lets see Patchogue, North Patchogue, Medford, Hagerman, Holbrook, Holtsville, Center Moriches. Now lets see three shifts a day @ 150.00 a shift= 450.00 a day x 365 = 164,250.00 per district per year for a service already provided for FREE. So for the districts I mentioned thats 1,149,750.00 dollars a year wasted!!! And you are worried about a chiefs vehicle! I am a chief and run my own businees basically in my district give or take 6 miles. However I rack up 18,000 miles a year on the taxpayer funded vehicle but I also make 90% of the alarms so should I not use that vehicle then dip shit.

Hey Chief, keep sucking the taxpayers dry as you drive around drunk you sprry excuse for a man. You are nothing more than a perp in an FD car.

[Unregisteredrally]

Me thinks somebody is either a jealous because they lost an election for a chiefs position, or a jealous captain or family of one, who doesnt get a car when chiefs go away.

The amount of time a chief must spend at the firehouse, and away from there family, I think the least they can do is give them a car to use. And yes if they are at work they may have to leave in an emergency. I know my chief has left his job if there is a working fire. Of course he works a couple of towns away. They give a lot, most care, and they deserve a the proper tools, such as a car, to get the job done.

[FF/EMT]

The amount of time a chief must spend at the firehouse, and away from there family, I think the least they can do is give them a car to use. And yes if they are at work they may have to leave in an emergency. I know my chief has left his job if there is a working fire. Of course he works a couple of towns away. They give a lot, most care, and they deserve a the proper tools, such as a car, to get the job done.

No disagreement with your statement. I don't know how a chief can do his job without a car. What I'm talking about is the chief who openly brags that he doesn't put a dime of his own money in the gas tank, takes the car on vacations, and also brags he doesn't pay a dime in taxes for this personal benefit. This is illegal. Again, I don't find this particularly motivating.

[appliestocareeraswell]

No disagreement with your statement. I don't know how a chief can do his job without a car. What I'm talking about is the chief who openly brags that he doesn't put a dime of his own money in the gas tank, takes the car on vacations, and also brags he doesn't pay a dime in taxes for this personal benefit. This is illegal. Again, I don't find this particularly motivating.

The same applies for the paid chief of GC who has a city owned unmarked SUV for his personal use as well!

[Unregistered123445]

yes gas prices are very high, but fd's that have their own gas pumps or go to a neighboring dept to fill up it is about $1.00-$1.25 cheaper. many taxes are eliminated. before you say something know what your talking about! try going to a bofc meeting and you learn alittle something!

[Fuel Surcharge]

The last post was comical. obviously this person does absolutly no muni purchasing of fuel. 87 octane regular through municipal purchase was $2.78 per gallon last week. Not 1.00 - 1.25 less but about .57-67 cents less per gallon.

I say give the guys with the cars a 1099 for the cost of the car, milage cost, insurance and fuel. Let them write off the business useage as per IRS guidelines.

[Unregisteredgoodidea]

The last post was comical. obviously this person does absolutly no muni purchasing of fuel. 87 octane regular through municipal purchase was $2.78 per gallon last week. Not 1.00 - 1.25 less but about .57-67 cents less per gallon.

I say give the guys with the cars a 1099 for the cost of the car, milage cost, insurance and fuel. Let them write off the business useage as per IRS guidelines.


good idea, while your at it, lets take out all the BARS, and FREE cable/Sat tv's from the firehouses, eliminate the 25 thousand dollar dinners, eliminate LOSAP, No more family picnic day, and no more drill teams.

If you have soooo much to say, run for chief. Yes having a chiefs car is a perk, lets not forget meetings, drills, training, and calls that the rest of you hairbags sleep through or think that your to "experienced" to go to. I am a volley, and a chief, anytime you want to walk in my shoes let me know. If you havent shut your mouth

[Unregisteredjealously]

It really is a shame that certain people are so jealous that they have to turn to this board to stir shit. Probably the same people who were chiefs in the 80's and early 90's and took your cars (oops I mean FD car) out of town for personal pleasure, now your the douche making waves. Remember what goes around comes around.

Makes you think doesnt it. Keep patting yourself on the back. We see right through you.

[mike2586]

Can someone tell me why the chiefs cars need to have leather seats and DVD players. The free car i can understand to a point, but I pulled up next to a north lindenhurst chief the other day and saw his kid watching a DVD in the back of a Tahoe Limited.... do you really need leather and wood grain paneling to respond to alarms?

[freebeerandice]

NLFD has ALWAYS had the best. In the 80's they had OLDS 98 Regencies when everyone else had Ford and Chevy police cruisers.

[grossexampleofwaste]

The same applies for the paid chief of GC who has a city owned unmarked SUV for his personal use as well!

The same is taking home a full pension and full salary at the sme time for which Newsday has writen an article, but for some reason, has not printed.

[Unregisteredthinking]

Can someone tell me why the chiefs cars need to have leather seats and DVD players. The free car i can understand to a point, but I pulled up next to a north lindenhurst chief the other day and saw his kid watching a DVD in the back of a Tahoe Limited.... do you really need leather and wood grain paneling to respond to alarms?


My goodness; I finally had to respond to this pettiness. Are you kidding? On State bid, what is the difference? I do not begrudge any fool, in this day and age of INGRATITUDE, any perk that convinces them to do this very inconvienient job for nothing. A paid Chief would have regular off time and make in Salary , AND A REAL PENSION, much much more. What 60-75,000 a year plus 30-40,000 not 7,000 in pension. Grow up people. Get lives, BITCH about the $750 in oil I just put in my house for 1 lousy fill. Or maybe the $4 a gallon we'll be paying in gas this summer. No wonder they get away with this shit-people are too busy complaining about petty, pennies on here. Spend this time writing congress, blogging your local Senators instead. Make a REAL difference on real issues.

[Unregistered0000]

Two years ago I saw a Wantagh FD SUV Chief car at a Pocono lake community!

Imagine the response time from there! Not to mention, the gas and wear and tear, paid for by the District for this Chief's personal vacation!!

Than Chiefs and Fire District Boards wonder why people complain on boards like this!

It is an abuse of power!

[HotPotatoeFromMastic]

Let's not forget about the dipshit SpasticMastic EMS tool box that transports his fat ass back and forth to Stony Brook Hospital everyday at the expense of the district and the tax payers. Oh and by the way dipshit fat boy, get the hell off the phone or buy a bluetooth (when you're not to busy buying all those lottery tickets) when you're driving a company vehicle.

[goldmember88]

Two years ago I saw a Wantagh FD SUV Chief car at a Pocono lake community!

Imagine the response time from there! Not to mention, the gas and wear and tear, paid for by the District for this Chief's personal vacation!!

Than Chiefs and Fire District Boards wonder why people complain on boards like this!

It is an abuse of power!

WOW.... I saw Elvis. It took two years to come out and say it. Therapy is working.

[Unregistered111111111111]

I am a volley... I am not a chief... and I am a paid fireman... I do agree with some of the points that have been raised and disagree with some of them... I do agree that giving a chief a car is a reasonable request.... I do agree that this member should be able to take his car to and from work... Should we really make some guy buy a second car just to bring to and from work? However that is where my agreement ends... This is to ALL the volley chiefs out there... if you are going to purchase a vehicle for your 6 or 8 year term DO NOT rip off us taxpayers.... I am not that educated on all the departments on Long Island, however I do know mine pretty well.... $80,000 for one car is absurd... It is highway robbery.... my town does not have one but at least two of these cars... why does it cost that much? All the lights? Do you really need all of them? All those radios? Do we need all of them? DVD players, wood paneling? Come on.... oh and when those cars go in for service after the warranty for some reason the chiefs are bringing the car back to the dealership... does anyone on this board ever bring their car back to a dealership for routine maintenance after the warranty is over? That was a rhetorical question please don't answer... gas prices are through the roof and getting higher everyday... when you get out of your car please shut it off... don't leave it running outside of the firehouse for 2 hours so it is nice and warm or nice and cool inside for you when you get back in.... would you do that in your wife's car? Another rhetorical question.... one last thing that I want to direct to ALL the chiefs on Long Island... if you are going away leave your car at the firehouse.... It is embarrassing that your cars are seen over the northeast driving on family vacations... and don't tell me that you can pull over and help someone on the side of the road... Because you have had to fit all your bags, family and beer in the car you have stripped it of all first responder equipment. And your radios don't work in the Pocono’s or upstate hunting.... rent a car borrow a car or steal a car I don't care... but don't let me see these cars anyplace they should not be...

[goldmember88]

I am a volley... I am not a chief... and I am a paid fireman... I do agree with some of the points that have been raised and disagree with some of them... I do agree that giving a chief a car is a reasonable request.... I do agree that this member should be able to take his car to and from work... Should we really make some guy buy a second car just to bring to and from work? However that is where my agreement ends... This is to ALL the volley chiefs out there... if you are going to purchase a vehicle for your 6 or 8 year term DO NOT rip off us taxpayers.... I am not that educated on all the departments on Long Island, however I do know mine pretty well.... $80,000 for one car is absurd... It is highway robbery.... my town does not have one but at least two of these cars... why does it cost that much? All the lights? Do you really need all of them? All those radios? Do we need all of them? DVD players, wood paneling? Come on.... oh and when those cars go in for service after the warranty for some reason the chiefs are bringing the car back to the dealership... does anyone on this board ever bring their car back to a dealership for routine maintenance after the warranty is over? That was a rhetorical question please don't answer... gas prices are through the roof and getting higher everyday... when you get out of your car please shut it off... don't leave it running outside of the firehouse for 2 hours so it is nice and warm or nice and cool inside for you when you get back in.... would you do that in your wife's car? Another rhetorical question.... one last thing that I want to direct to ALL the chiefs on Long Island... if you are going away leave your car at the firehouse.... It is embarrassing that your cars are seen over the northeast driving on family vacations... and don't tell me that you can pull over and help someone on the side of the road... Because you have had to fit all your bags, family and beer in the car you have stripped it of all first responder equipment. And your radios don't work in the Pocono’s or upstate hunting.... rent a car borrow a car or steal a car I don't care... but don't let me see these cars anyplace they should not be...

First off, Chief's don't purchase their vehicles, the Board of Fire Commissioners does.

Second, do you know the warranty on that vehicle? 3, 4 possible 5 years?

And as for your beer comment, your an ASS. GO to your firehouse and say it to any of your chiefs. Your just another cry-baby that lost for chief.

[UnregisteredNYC]

I am a volley... I am not a chief... and I am a paid fireman... I do agree with some of the points that have been raised and disagree with some of them... I do agree that giving a chief a car is a reasonable request.... I do agree that this member should be able to take his car to and from work... Should we really make some guy buy a second car just to bring to and from work?

WTF are you talking about? Should we really make some guy buy a second car just to bring to and from work?? NO! He should already have a car just like he did before he won the popularity contest, sorry I mean election! I really should not see Fire chiefs trucks daily at their job in NYC or hear they have it just in case a call comes in because we all know they aren't going to respond from Manhattan to Smithtown or even a Nassau town like Elmont for that matter.

[Unregistered1112222]

WTF are you talking about? Should we really make some guy buy a second car just to bring to and from work?? NO! He should already have a car just like he did before he won the popularity contest, sorry I mean election! I really should not see Fire chiefs trucks daily at their job in NYC or hear they have it just in case a call comes in because we all know they aren't going to respond from Manhattan to Smithtown or even a Nassau town like Elmont for that matter.

please reread my passage before you write something stupid again... and also a lot of people in todays world lease a car... and they should not be expected to constantly lease a car for no reason...

[eagle327]

Obviously your not an intelligent vollie or paid fireman, probably a probie in both. Chief's vehicle's are purchased under state bid/contract at LOWEST price then the radio's and lights are also purchased at state bid, as is most tools and equipment. There is a book and website to review of state prices, read it sometime. I have vollie'd for 12 years and have been a paid Medic for 8 years, I have never see a Chief take his vehicle on vacation to the Pocono's or anywhere else. Should they travel to there jobs, yes, within reason. Whenever I see a Chief's vehicle running outside is usually for <30 minutes, should they turn it off...yes..waste of gas.. yes... next time the truck is running and the door is open shut off the engine yourself. Do u attend dept. meeting? Then bring it up on the floor and have it addressed instead of griping about it here.

[Unregistered11221122]

First off, Chief's don't purchase their vehicles, the Board of Fire Commissioners does.

Second, do you know the warranty on that vehicle? 3, 4 possible 5 years?

And as for your beer comment, your an ASS. GO to your firehouse and say it to any of your chiefs. Your just another cry-baby that lost for chief.


my department does not have a bofc and the chief is the one that picks out and designs his vehicle I mentioned that I can only speak honestly about my place not everyone elses...

manufacturer warranties on ALL cars are 36 months... that is all... powertrain warranties can range in time depending on the manufacturer.... and the only way to get a longer warranty is to purchase one.... although all car magazines and consumer reports advise against an extended warranty becasue they are not worth it....

as for the beer comment I never ran for chief and do not want to... and I do say what I want when I want in the firehouse and hold nothing back...

[Unregistered11223344]

Obviously your not an intelligent vollie or paid fireman, probably a probie in both. Chief's vehicle's are purchased under state bid/contract at LOWEST price then the radio's and lights are also purchased at state bid, as is most tools and equipment. There is a book and website to review of state prices, read it sometime. I have vollie'd for 12 years and have been a paid Medic for 8 years, I have never see a Chief take his vehicle on vacation to the Pocono's or anywhere else. Should they travel to there jobs, yes, within reason. Whenever I see a Chief's vehicle running outside is usually for <30 minutes, should they turn it off...yes..waste of gas.. yes... next time the truck is running and the door is open shut off the engine yourself. Do u attend dept. meeting? Then bring it up on the floor and have it addressed instead of griping about it here.

why do guys go for intelligence here? state bid is USUALLY the lowest... not always however... also after the new chiefs car has been delivered and all the cool stuff has gone on it what happens when a chief wants to expand his lighting scheme? or wants to add the new $10,000 computer in the car? this will sometimes come from state bid.. but not always... I have said it before and will say it again...I ONLY TRULY KNOW THE INNER WORKINGS OF MY FIRE DEPARTMENT AND DO NOT 100% (like everyone else on this rant) THE INNER WORKINGS OF EVERY OTHER DEPARTMENT ON LONG ISLAND... I do go to meetings I do voice my opinions and I do talk to the chiefs and other members about my gripes... I post things periodically on this board when I feel I have something to add to vent my frustrations and see if other departments are having the same difficulties my department is having... I do not take pot shots at other posters and do not degrade the education of others... I would ask for the same respect and allow myself (just like everyone else) the freedom to post their thoughts on this board... also being a paid medic for 8 years you should know that fire trucks and chief cars should not be allowed to carry an automatic defribulator in them unless they have a license from the state registering them as a first responder vehicle... here is more money we can save with these chief cars....

[unregistered802345681]

The vehicles are controlled by the local Board of the district or the fire company, ask them if you don't like the use. I am sure they are more than aware and have authorized it. If you don't like the answer, move on to higher authorities, not here.

$80K for a Chief's car, doubt it. Most either go for state bid, or go to a local dealer, put the bid on the table and say "match it and find me one". Usually happens. If not pay for the nominal delivery charge from wherever. Plus there are side bids, like county etc.., you would kill for what they pay for a loaded SUV.. Very cheap.

Fitting out and radios, yes, big expense, but not as much as you think. Paint, about $5K if out of control, usually much less. Radios, since there may not be tradeouts from a former truck or the nerds have changed the frequencies again, could go as high as $15K. Command center, $2K if it rubs you when you open the back hatch. Total for a fully loaded SUV that lasts around ten years. $51K tops, don't care what they told you they paid for it reduce that by 40%. Been there done that, got the t shirt. It's "keeping up with the Jones's".
Now you go out and buy a similar vehicle, spec out the, motor, electrical, tranny, suspension, warranty, all the bells and whistles on your own and tell me you can get that price, if the dealer even will order it for you? Try it some day.

Concentrate on the real issues, not the coffee room roumors.

[goldmember88]

why do guys go for intelligence here? state bid is USUALLY the lowest... not always however... also after the new chiefs car has been delivered and all the cool stuff has gone on it what happens when a chief wants to expand his lighting scheme? or wants to add the new $10,000 computer in the car? this will sometimes come from state bid.. but not always... I have said it before and will say it again...I ONLY TRULY KNOW THE INNER WORKINGS OF MY FIRE DEPARTMENT AND DO NOT 100% (like everyone else on this rant) THE INNER WORKINGS OF EVERY OTHER DEPARTMENT ON LONG ISLAND... I do go to meetings I do voice my opinions and I do talk to the chiefs and other members about my gripes... I post things periodically on this board when I feel I have something to add to vent my frustrations and see if other departments are having the same difficulties my department is having... I do not take pot shots at other posters and do not degrade the education of others... I would ask for the same respect and allow myself (just like everyone else) the freedom to post their thoughts on this board... also being a paid medic for 8 years you should know that fire trucks and chief cars should not be allowed to carry an automatic defribulator in them unless they have a license from the state registering them as a first responder vehicle... here is more money we can save with these chief cars....

Please tell us which protocol or which goverment agency has that in writing?

[AED in Chiefs car]

every local store now has an AED in it. It does not require a license or any certification to use. That is the law. Why would a chief need to be a first responder to have it in his car? What regulation or protocol are you dreaming up? I could buy one legally, have it in my house or car moron.

[goldmember88]

Public Health Law Article 30
Article 30 and Article 30a of the State of New York Public Health Law
Emergency Medical Services

Section 3000-b. Automated defibrillators: Public access providers.
Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
"Automated external defibrillator" means a medical device, approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, that:
is capable of recognizing the presence or absence, in a patient, of ventricular fibrillation and rapid ventricular tachycardia;
is capable of determining, without intervention by an operator, whether defibrillation should be performed on the patient;
upon determining that defibrillation should be performed, automatically charges and requests delivery of an electrical impulse to the patient's heart; and
then, upon action by an operator, delivers an appropriate electrical impulse to the patient's heart to perform defibrillation.
"Emergency Health Care Provider" means:
a physician with knowledge and experience in the delivery of emergency cardiac care; or
a hospital licensed under article twenty-eight of this chapter that provides emergency cardiac care.
"Public access defibrillation provider" means a person, firm, organization or other entity possessing or operating an automated external defibrillator pursuant to a collaborative agreement under this section.
"Nationally-recognized organization" means a national organization approved by the department for the purpose of training people in use of an automated external defibrillator.
Collaborative agreement. A person, firm, organization or other entity may purchase, acquire, possess and operate an automated external defibrillator pursuant to a collaborative agreement with an emergency health care provider. The collaborative agreement shall include a written agreement that incorporates written practice protocols, and policies and procedures that shall assure compliance with this section. The public access defibrillation provider shall file a copy of the collaborative agreement with the department and with the appropriate regional council prior to operating the automated external defibrillator.
Possession and operation of automated external defibrillator. Possession and operation of an automated external defibrillator by a public access defibrillation provider shall comply with the following:
No person may operate an automated external defibrillator unless the person has successfully completed a training course in the operation of an automated external defibrillator approved by a nationally-recognized organization or the state emergency medical services council, and the completion of the course was recent enough to still be effective under the standards of the approving organization. However, this section shall not prohibit operation of an automated external defibrillator,
by a health care practitioner licensed or certified under title VIII of the education law or a person certified under this article acting within his or her lawful scope of practice or
by a person acting pursuant to a lawful prescription.
The public access defibrillation provider shall cause the automated external defibrillator to be maintained and tested according to applicable standards of the manufacturer and any appropriate government agency.
The public access defibrillation provider shall notify the regional council of the existence, location and type of any automated external defibrillator it possess.
Every use of an automated external defibrillator on a patient shall be immediately reported to the appropriate local emergency medical services system, emergency communications center or emergency vehicle dispatch center as appropriate and promptly reproted to the emergency health care provider.
The Emergency Health Care Provider shall participate in the regional quality improvement program pursuant to subdivision one of section three thousand four-A of this article.
The public access defibrillation provider shall post a sign or notice at the main entrance to the facility or building in which the automated external defibrillator is stored, indicating the location where any such automated external defibrillator is stored or maintained in such building or facility on a regular basis.
Application of other laws.
Operation of an automated external defibrillator pursuant to this section shall be considered first aid or emergency treatment for the purpose of any statute relating to liability.
Operation of an automated external defibrillator pursuant to this section shall not constitute the unlawful practice of a profession under title VIII of the education law.

So, medic of 8 years, what shouldnt i carry?

[Unregistered chef]

Can someone tell me why the chiefs cars need to have leather seats and DVD players. The free car i can understand to a point, but I pulled up next to a north lindenhurst chief the other day and saw his kid watching a DVD in the back of a Tahoe Limited.... do you really need leather and wood grain paneling to respond to alarms?

Most of the chiefs' cars are bought off a state bid. If the bid is for the Tahoe or Suburban with all the stuff, there is no choice. Usually to get the bid the dealers add all these things in for NO charge to the municipality. My car was given to me and I was shocked at all the "cushy" extras. I asked about it and that's the answer I got from the board.

I work from home but when I do leave the district, I do put fuel in the vehicle....that's me though...it's not a rule. There are rules about staying in the county unless going to a firematic function outside Suffolk. If you think the districts are not feeling the gas crunch, you're wrong. They are pissing and moaning about it and watching fuel logs like hawks. Good for them, that's their jobs.

Don't lump us all together...there is abuse. But for those of us that ride over 1000 calls a year and go to drills, meetings, town meetings, county meetings, commissioners meetings, etc... it is a needed perk.

[Unregisteredjohn gleen n]

Most of the chiefs' cars are bought off a state bid. If the bid is for the Tahoe or Suburban with all the stuff, there is no choice. Usually to get the bid the dealers add all these things in for NO charge to the municipality. My car was given to me and I was shocked at all the "cushy" extras. I asked about it and that's the answer I got from the board.

I work from home but when I do leave the district, I do put fuel in the vehicle....that's me though...it's not a rule. There are rules about staying in the county unless going to a firematic function outside Suffolk. If you think the districts are not feeling the gas crunch, you're wrong. They are pissing and moaning about it and watching fuel logs like hawks. Good for them, that's their jobs.

Don't lump us all together...there is abuse. But for those of us that ride over 1000 calls a year and go to drills, meetings, town meetings, county meetings, commissioners meetings, etc... it is a needed perk.Listen jackass you look into why teachers get pay so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[iAMaVOLLY]

i repsond to 1000 calls a year, 2 miles each way to the firehouse, 4 miles per round trip-taking into account a few double and triple whammies, i make roughly 800 round tripe per year to the firehouse- at 4 miles per round trip, that is $3200 miles per year on my vehicle- at 10 miles per gallon, that is roughly 320 gallons of gas as a volly responding to emergency calls per year- at $3.45 per gallon, that is roughly $1104.00 per year in gas to serve my community- How come I don't get reimbursed? OH, and BTW, that does not include company and department meetings, company and department drills, required osha and hazmat as well asother required courses...and on and on!!

[write it off]

You can get reimbursed...just claim the mileage on your taxes you dummy. Its volunteer.....you can claim mileage used for volunteer work. Its actually quite simple. I know they dont reimburse the full amount, but its something.

You know, you're one of those guys who give us vollies a bad name. If you're worried so much about getting reimbursed for gas mileage, for driving 2 miles, then maybe you're volunteering for the wrong reasons.

Get over it!

[Carbuff]

Mileage Reimbursement for the tax year 2007 was $0.485 per mile.

For the tax year 2008 it is $0.505 per mile.

[Unregisteredgas]

Listen, it is not going to stop, so why complain? You are wasting your time and effort

[Unregistereda6s6]

Listen, it is not going to stop, so why complain? You are wasting your time and effort

We know they are crooks. They know they are crooks. Totally agree the criminal activity will not stop.

[We're all crooks]

First I would like to comment on how everyone is labeling the vollies as crooks for driving taxpayer-funded cars. You're right, we're all crooks. every last one of us. Every EMT or Medic who has left their family at the dinner table to save the fat ass who just went into cardiac arrest from writing so much crap on lipolitics, is a crook. Every firefighter who runs into a house which was set on fire from the crack-head who dropped their cigarette, is a crook. Every EMT or Medic who gets on the ambulance voluntarily only to get spit at by the HIV infested psych patient, is a crook. Every firefighter who leaves their family for most of Sunday afternoon to deal with the little rat bastards lighting brush fires or the retards crashing their motorcycles, is a crook. Every single one of these people who volunteer their free time regardless of what they are doing or who they are with, to help others in their time of need, are all crooks.

Please...give me a break!

Is their corruption??? YES...just as their is in the town highway dept, county highway dept., state highway dept., school districts, water districts, federal government, police....the list goes on and on. Tax-funded organizations are always in the spotlight and are constantly being criticized. But why does the public choose to rip apart the volunteer fire service the most???? God only knows. Being the evil, ungreatful, disrespectful, Americans that we are today, I guess thats what we do....Criticize those who help others and try to do the right thing. That is the exact reason why most other countries hate us so much. Its the American way!

[Unregisterednoncriminal]

First I would like to comment on how everyone is labeling the vollies as crooks for driving taxpayer-funded cars. You're right, we're all crooks. every last one of us. Every EMT or Medic who has left their family at the dinner table to save the fat ass who just went into cardiac arrest from writing so much crap on lipolitics, is a crook. Every firefighter who runs into a house which was set on fire from the crack-head who dropped their cigarette, is a crook. Every EMT or Medic who gets on the ambulance voluntarily only to get spit at by the HIV infested psych patient, is a crook. Every firefighter who leaves their family for most of Sunday afternoon to deal with the little rat bastards lighting brush fires or the retards crashing their motorcycles, is a crook. Every single one of these people who volunteer their free time regardless of what they are doing or who they are with, to help others in their time of need, are all crooks.

Please...give me a break!

Is their corruption??? YES...just as their is in the town highway dept, county highway dept., state highway dept., school districts, water districts, federal government, police....the list goes on and on. Tax-funded organizations are always in the spotlight and are constantly being criticized. But why does the public choose to rip apart the volunteer fire service the most???? God only knows. Being the evil, ungreatful, disrespectful, Americans that we are today, I guess thats what we do....Criticize those who help others and try to do the right thing. That is the exact reason why most other countries hate us so much. Its the American way!

I think you missed the point. It is not driving a taxpayer vehicle that is criminal. It is the use of the taxpayer vehicle for personal use and then not reporting the mileage on your taxes. I would guess that virtually all chiefs fail to do this. Any chiefs out there actually obey the law?

[Unregistered678]

I think you missed the point. It is not driving a taxpayer vehicle that is criminal. It is the use of the taxpayer vehicle for personal use and then not reporting the mileage on your taxes. I would guess that virtually all chiefs fail to do this. Any chiefs out there actually obey the law?

No, YOU missed the point. This happens no more than in any other business, but ironically, here where the people are mostly volunteering to begin with, we scrutinize and criticize WAY OUT OF PROPORTION to the issues at hand. Any volunteer Chief out there deserves far more than free gas and mileage on an occassional personal trip to the grocery store. You have to be a pretty bitter, jealous and petty person to wonder if he noted the 3 mile rountrip on his taxes. Who, by the way, is scrutinizing YOUR tax return? Whether your income is tax funded or not, if you cheat on your return, deduct for donations you don't make, you cheat Mr. and Mrs. Taxpayer too. So get off your horse.Be grateful for all the free good the Chiefs do for the community. The lives they save are worth far more than anything they are getting.

[1101]

No, YOU missed the point. This happens no more than in any other business, but ironically, here where the people are mostly volunteering to begin with, we scrutinize and criticize WAY OUT OF PROPORTION to the issues at hand. Any volunteer Chief out there deserves far more than free gas and mileage on an occassional personal trip to the grocery store. You have to be a pretty bitter, jealous and petty person to wonder if he noted the 3 mile rountrip on his taxes. Who, by the way, is scrutinizing YOUR tax return? Whether your income is tax funded or not, if you cheat on your return, deduct for donations you don't make, you cheat Mr. and Mrs. Taxpayer too. So get off your horse.Be grateful for all the free good the Chiefs do for the community. The lives they save are worth far more than anything they are getting.

I hear ya. But all the perks (and please don't get me wrong i think they should get the perks) is what got a lot of deptments in troble half the guys in Selden that went down(not all) shoulda been aloud the perks.

[dfsfds]

The Selden guys used the money inappropriately during the time of conventions/seminars. They used the money for things that weren't allowed as per the travel policies of NY State. Not that it makes what they did right, but its definitely a HUGE difference from outright stealing money and putting it into their personal bank accounts....just as many school district officials have done.

Putting that aside...on a side note....the public seems to forget that the Volunteer firefighters who do the job for free, pay the exact same fire tax that they are. So basically, the firefighters are paying out of their own pockets to a job without a pay check....figure that one out!!!

[Unregistered555444]

The Selden guys used the money inappropriately during the time of conventions/seminars. They used the money for things that weren't allowed as per the travel policies of NY State. Not that it makes what they did right, but its definitely a HUGE difference from outright stealing money and putting it into their personal bank accounts....just as many school district officials have done.

Putting that aside...on a side note....the public seems to forget that the Volunteer firefighters who do the job for free, pay the exact same fire tax that they are. So basically, the firefighters are paying out of their own pockets to a job without a pay check....figure that one out!!!

you guys keep saying that we are doing this for free... this is true however, we still get some stuff for free as well... usually a big savings... a free state of the art gym membership... a tax relief on my taxes... usually receiving some sort of a courtesy from the police..... free trips with actually getting paid for it.... free shirts and coats.... free food at least once a week... free drinks at a great bar at least once a week sometimes more... yes this is volunteer and we do this for free but don't think we are not getting a little something for it.... don't feel bad for us mr joe public.... yes we go above and beyond but we get stuff... now for the cars.... really don't tell me all they do becuase it does not constitute all they get...

[Unregistered21212121]

you guys keep saying that we are doing this for free... this is true however, we still get some stuff for free as well... usually a big savings... a free state of the art gym membership... a tax relief on my taxes... usually receiving some sort of a courtesy from the police..... free trips with actually getting paid for it.... free shirts and coats.... free food at least once a week... free drinks at a great bar at least once a week sometimes more... yes this is volunteer and we do this for free but don't think we are not getting a little something for it.... don't feel bad for us mr joe public.... yes we go above and beyond but we get stuff... now for the cars.... really don't tell me all they do becuase it does not constitute all they get...

You are exagerating just a bit I think. I get a tax break. I get to go to a gym (thank god because it keeps my cardio up and keeps me in shape so I don't blow up working at a rescue or fire call). The t-shirts, jackets and food I get are paid for by fundraising, not your walk around asking for donations type but car washes, flower sales, pancake breakfasts, comedy shows etc. Things that require us to WORK for our money. No different from the local high school teams, boy/girl scouts or church groups. My department does not furnish alcohol to us nor do I feel the need to spend my time drinking it. Our sodas and water bottles we pay for from fundraising as well. The department only furnishes it to us at training classes and working calls. What "free" stuff are you refering to that I would get at "BIG" savings? I feel cheated now. You must be one of the ones who only does this for what you can get. Hmmm, Does the term knife and forker mean anything to you?

[dflgkdf]

Yeah, Im going to agree with the guy above. Our t-shirts/jackets are paid for by fund-raising that we worked at (raffles, comedy shows, etc.). If there isnt any fund raising money to by the jackets or shirts, we pay out of pocket. My department does NOT buy alcohol with tax funded money, nor does it distribute it cost free. You have to buy each and every bottle yourself. We have our own vending machines, where we pay for our own soda and snacks. The profits made on those machines are used to buy more soda, snacks, and beer. Not one dime of tax funded money is used for the soda, snacks or beer. Its all paid for out of pocket by the members.

"State of the art gym".....I love it! If you think free weights, a few universal machines, and a broken tredmill is state of the art, then Im guessing u dont work out often. Why dont u stop in at the Suffolk County police's gym. All payed for in your Police tax that you pay! Anyway, why would you want the firefighters to be in shape to do the job???? Thats just silly. Please!

"Free dinner at least once a week". We're lucky if we get it once a month at our dept meeting. And its not even any good!

[Unregistered04ptrji]

The Selden guys used the money inappropriately during the time of conventions/seminars. They used the money for things that weren't allowed as per the travel policies of NY State. Not that it makes what they did right, but its definitely a HUGE difference from outright stealing money and putting it into their personal bank accounts....just as many school district officials have done.

Putting that aside...on a side note....the public seems to forget that the Volunteer firefighters who do the job for free, pay the exact same fire tax that they are. So basically, the firefighters are paying out of their own pockets to a job without a pay check....figure that one out!!!

try telling the ENTIRE story...while some DISTRICT members used money inappropriately others were buying their wives a meal...they did not spend the money foolishly... it has been this way for MANY yrs, no one told them otherwise..IN fact I think the district attorneys office investigated the wrong people.. They should of investigated the former commissioners who taught the "NEW JACKS" (pun intended).. But we all know that "HE" has the DA's office on his side... Thanks to his retired job and some old friends..

[patty o' furniture]

Yeah, Im going to agree with the guy above. Our t-shirts/jackets are paid for by fund-raising that we worked at (raffles, comedy shows, etc.). If there isnt any fund raising money to by the jackets or shirts, we pay out of pocket. My department does NOT buy alcohol with tax funded money, nor does it distribute it cost free. You have to buy each and every bottle yourself. We have our own vending machines, where we pay for our own soda and snacks. The profits made on those machines are used to buy more soda, snacks, and beer. Not one dime of tax funded money is used for the soda, snacks or beer. Its all paid for out of pocket by the members.

"State of the art gym".....I love it! If you think free weights, a few universal machines, and a broken tredmill is state of the art, then Im guessing u dont work out often. Why dont u stop in at the Suffolk County police's gym. All payed for in your Police tax that you pay! Anyway, why would you want the firefighters to be in shape to do the job???? Thats just silly. Please!

"Free dinner at least once a week". We're lucky if we get it once a month at our dept meeting. And its not even any good!


I have to concur. There is no GYM in my firehouse, but the GYM in the basement of the Precinct is State of the Art, and that is pure tax dollars. Additionally, purely donations pay for our refreshments, with the exception of the Installation Banquet, which is permitted under State Law. However, we are not allowed to pay for the drinks at that dinner, so that's paid for by fundraising.

Meals are hardly a regular occurrence at the firehouse. But, I wouldnt begrudge a guy a slice of pizza or a chicken wing, when they missed their dinner to make a drill or meeting.

T-Shirts, Jackets....nothing paid for with tax dollars, except uniforms. This is all done on fundraising efforts.

[taxstrangledjoker_12345]

While it is true that there are chiefs out there that abuse the privilege of a FD vehicle, that does not account for ALL chiefs. Most districts will not allow the chief vehicle to leave the state (eg pocono). Fire chiefs run a tour from 2 - 8 years depending on the department. By the time it is over they are more then burnt out (no pun intended) and the piddly crappy used car they have had to fit into for their term is less than worth it. As far as those big gas guzzling SUV's are concerned, the amount of gear a chief is required to carry, which includes radios, bunker gear, AED, First Aid equipment, tactical and reference manuals for Haz-Mat etc, and fire fighting tools take up the WHOLE back of that “luxurious” SUV.

Most chiefs never have the opportunity to accompany their families to the weekly supermarket trip since there is no room to put a bag of groceries into that BIG SUV and how many chiefs wind up running out on almost EVERY family affair they ever attend because some moron drunk had to crash into a pole or another motorist? There are MANY sacrifices that go in to being a Fire Chief made not only by the member but their family as well. So what if they get a fleet vehicle (purchased WAY BELOW MARKET COST ON NYS CONTRACT) to use for the duration of their term. Chiefs have trucks – that is a fact of life. A firefighter is a firefighter 24 hours a day… not just during a shift or set hours. I myself have assisted chiefs outside of my own district and theirs at Motor Vehicle accidents on the LIE to extricate a victim. If not for these dedicated people, we would all be in bad shape.

If everyone is so upset about the fire service on Long Island, then quit bitching about it and DO SOMETHING. Get off your fat asses, take a ride to the palatial fire house in your town and SIGN UP AS A VOLUNTEER. You will be surprised how much you read here is over exaggerated. The volunteer fire service is an American Tradition started by Ben Franklin. It is not an evil thing, rather a STRONG community based service organization. Fire departments throughout the island are desperately in need of help. GO JOIN and stop your idle complaints

In closing, perhaps if your local fire department is so horrible, maybe you should consider that before calling 911 for help. If you really don't like the FD then why not ask to be removed from the response list - oh wait you can't BECAUSE regardless of your pitiful and obnoxious opinion, those of us who have sworn to protect you will STILL get up and save you - you stupid dolt!

[UnregisteredVVV]

I WAS WITH YOU UNTIL YOU TRIED TO EXPLAIN WHY THE CHIEFS NEED 50-60K SUBURBANS. SOMEHOW THE REST OF THE COUNTRY MANAGES WITH CROWN VICS, AND IMPALAS.

ALSO, GIVEN THE VOLUNTEERS DO GET COMPENSATION, I THINK THEY SHOULD STOP CALLING THEM VOLUNTEERS.

By definition, a volunteer worker does not get paid or receive compensation for services rendered other than reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses.

LONG ISLAND VOLUNTEERS DO GET COMPENSATION IN THE FORM A PENSION, TAX BREAKS, INSURANCE BENEFITS, AND NOT TO MENTION THE DISCOUNTS.

[Unregisteredonliiiiiiiii]

Oh Boy here we go again..... beating a dead horse again.....


Grow up. Go away.

[Perks2904]

we already live in the county with the highest school and property taxes in the country. add a paid fire service to that and you'll flip. instead of being a dick, be grateful that there are men and women in your town that dedicate their time to help you and your family. yup, some vollies do get a car or pension or insurance perks. it will still always be cheaper than if the county went paid. and always keep in mind, you're entitled to join a fire of ems company and receive those "so called perks" you talk about. the service needs manpower. so man up and grow a set or shut up!

[Unregistered987]

I WAS WITH YOU UNTIL YOU TRIED TO EXPLAIN WHY THE CHIEFS NEED 50-60K SUBURBANS. SOMEHOW THE REST OF THE COUNTRY MANAGES WITH CROWN VICS, AND IMPALAS.

ALSO, GIVEN THE VOLUNTEERS DO GET COMPENSATION, I THINK THEY SHOULD STOP CALLING THEM VOLUNTEERS.

By definition, a volunteer worker does not get paid or receive compensation for services rendered other than reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses.

LONG ISLAND VOLUNTEERS DO GET COMPENSATION IN THE FORM A PENSION, TAX BREAKS, INSURANCE BENEFITS, AND NOT TO MENTION THE DISCOUNTS.


Volunteers all over the country write off, or get tax breaks for their volunteer efforts, gas mileage etc. They get meals at Board meetings and get treated to many little perks. Obviously you have never volunteered for anything or you would know this.This is not a salary nor any measurable compensation. People need to get a grip. Getting 20 dollars a month for every year that you risked your life or gave up full nights sleep is a nice gratuity, certainly not what anyone would consider sompensation. No one spends 20 years doing that for a potential $400 a month pension. What insurance benefits? I have never heard of any. What discounts? We can get a 10% property tax break IF the school district votes to approve it. In suffolk, a NEW volunteer may compete for college tuition paid for at SCCC - in exchange for 5 years service. Otherwise it gets paid back.

[UnregisteredVVV]

Ok, Your Right, A Suburban Does The Chief Job Better On Long Island Than The Impala Does In The Rest Of The Country.

I Never Said Anything About A Salary!!

It Is Obvious I Never Volunteered? But Ok, Your Right.

There Is No Workers Comp Insurance For Volies...ok, Your Right

My Point Wasnt A Bash!!!! It Was A Statement Of Fact! A True Sence Of The Word Volunteer Gets Zero!!! Not Even A Dime.

So, The Usher At Church, A Candy Striper,,,,volunteers.

Why Get So Mad About My Post? You Basically Agreed With All My Points!!!!!

Now Is It Volunteer??? Not A Bash, A Point Of Fact!

[Unregisteredjhgbipo]

Volunteers all over the country write off, or get tax breaks for their volunteer efforts, gas mileage etc. They get meals at Board meetings and get treated to many little perks. Obviously you have never volunteered for anything or you would know this.This is not a salary nor any measurable compensation. People need to get a grip. Getting 20 dollars a month for every year that you risked your life or gave up full nights sleep is a nice gratuity, certainly not what anyone would consider sompensation. No one spends 20 years doing that for a potential $400 a month pension. What insurance benefits? I have never heard of any. What discounts? We can get a 10% property tax break IF the school district votes to approve it. In suffolk, a NEW volunteer may compete for college tuition paid for at SCCC - in exchange for 5 years service. Otherwise it gets paid back.

uhm, it looks to me like you proved the other guys point. so, there is a pension, tax breaks, small perks. regarding the benefits, nys vollies are entitles to insurance from the nys insurance fund, or work comp insurance. i didnt take what he said as a negative on the fire, i tool it as a guy making a point, i mean what is a true volunteer?

[UnregisteredMOJIPHN]

uhm, it looks to me like you proved the other guys point. so, there is a pension, tax breaks, small perks. regarding the benefits, nys vollies are entitles to insurance from the nys insurance fund, or work comp insurance. i didnt take what he said as a negative on the fire, i tool it as a guy making a point, i mean what is a true volunteer?

IF YOU WANT TO GET TECHNICAL, IT IS 30 A MONTH AT 55. SO SAY A VOLLIE DOES 20 YEARS OF A FEW HOURS A WEEK, HE-SHE WOULD GET 600 A MONTH FROM 55 TO DEATH. SO SAY ONE LIVES TO BE 75, THATS 144,000 IN PENSION $$. THIS PLUS:

"More recently, a variety of substantial monetary incentives -- property-tax breaks, supplemental life insurance and pension benefits -- have been added."

"In 2003, the Legislature passed a law allowing local governments to cut property taxes for volunteer firefighters by 10 percent. Some Nassau school boards are considering this month whether to grant the exemption, and a growing number of Suffolk school districts have signed on."

"I think when you volunteer to do a job, you volunteer -- you don't do it for the benefits," said Anthony Frangipane, a Middle Island volunteer who has been repeatedly disciplined after bitter arguments with the fire commission. "Everybody wants something these days."



DOING A GREAT JOB....BUT IS IT VOLUNTEER??

[1101]

try telling the ENTIRE story...while some DISTRICT members used money inappropriately others were buying their wives a meal...they did not spend the money foolishly... it has been this way for MANY yrs, no one told them otherwise..IN fact I think the district attorneys office investigated the wrong people.. They should of investigated the former commissioners who taught the "NEW JACKS" (pun intended).. But we all know that "HE" has the DA's office on his side... Thanks to his retired job and some old friends.. Thank you thats what i was trying to say. Not all the guys in the selden mess were blowing it on bull sh_t some just feed there wives or partners(mistake maybe wrong no)

[Unregistered987]

IF YOU WANT TO GET TECHNICAL, IT IS 30 A MONTH AT 55. SO SAY A VOLLIE DOES 20 YEARS OF A FEW HOURS A WEEK, HE-SHE WOULD GET 600 A MONTH FROM 55 TO DEATH. SO SAY ONE LIVES TO BE 75, THATS 144,000 IN PENSION $$. THIS PLUS:

"More recently, a variety of substantial monetary incentives -- property-tax breaks, supplemental life insurance and pension benefits -- have been added."

"In 2003, the Legislature passed a law allowing local governments to cut property taxes for volunteer firefighters by 10 percent. Some Nassau school boards are considering this month whether to grant the exemption, and a growing number of Suffolk school districts have signed on."

"I think when you volunteer to do a job, you volunteer -- you don't do it for the benefits," said Anthony Frangipane, a Middle Island volunteer who has been repeatedly disciplined after bitter arguments with the fire commission. "Everybody wants something these days."



DOING A GREAT JOB....BUT IS IT VOLUNTEER??


It is legally allowed to be as high as $30 a month but is only so in maybe 3 districts in the entire state. Some are 10-15 month. Each district's taxpayers vote on this themselves. So a true volunteer does not accept a cup of coffee? Gee, if a candystripper gets hurt at the hospital, you don't think their insurance covers them? Are you people that stupid? As soon as you become an official part of any organization, even as a volunteer, you are covered. Boy Scouts carry insurance for exactly that reason, every troop is covered. Same with Big Brothers or ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION. Obviously none of you have ever gotten off your fat asses, away from the keyboards to actually volunteer. The definition never precludes a meal or beverage or parking space at the hospital to make the volunteer have an easier time accessing the "job." Communities showing appreciation and rewarding volunteers; appreciating them does not negate the effort or volunteerism. Doing it for the wrong reasons, well that exists everywhere in every line. Maybe people like power, children, cheap thrills, whatever. There are people who take nothing, people who do little and take everything. Same as everywhere else. What is your gripe? Your $4 gallon gas frustration is not the firefighter's fault. Your school taxes, not the firefighter's fault. Find something real to gripe about, like a billion a day in Iraq, or 5,000 dead soldiers. Give up on the free pizza.

[Unregistered789]

And I propbably wasn't really volunteering at ground zero because I was given food, cigarettes, clothing (socks especially) and even massages. The Habitat for Humanity workers are not volunteers if they get lunch? Do you get it yet folks?

[Unregistered987]

And medical care for the lung disease. You musta volunteered just for that perk!

[UnregistereKUIPGO]

"i Was There, Peace Out" People Who Were 10 At The Time "were There" "i Was There" Let The Fdny Take The Credit On That One Guys, I Doubt All The Vollies That Say They Were There, Were Actually There! I Know Alot Were, But Not All That Try To Take Credit For It. I Was There

[Unregistered987]

Could ya stay on topic, or is that just too hard for you. Maybe they are FDNY too. So many "vollies" are.

[Unregistered09876]

the topic? chief car..ok

[FST]

It's ridiculous to think that a chief shouldn't be given a car to carry emergency equipment. Whoever started this rant doesn't understand the role of chief and that they are on call 24/7!

[Unregisteredonliiiiiiiii]

It's ridiculous to think that a chief shouldn't be given a car to carry emergency equipment. Whoever started this rant doesn't understand the role of chief and that they are on call 24/7!

Your beating a dead horse... these dipshits just do not want to listen. There minds are made up and that's it case closed. I really would just love to see one of them walk in the shoes of a chief for 1 day.... Hopefully there will be brush fire after brush fire in the middle of the night and lets not forget the midnight ambulance calls, and all the whining they need to hear....

You really people really need to grow up and STOP over looking everyone else. WORRY about your selfs... your own family

[Unregisteredxxxxyyyyzzz]

Emergency responders from all walks of life are under so much scrutiny that before long, no one is going to want to take the job.

[time for them to go]

If I here one more guy say how he left his family at a dinner or a mall or school play i will throw up. You ran for office so either step down or shut up, as far as chiefs cars nothing wrong with the chiefs having them while in office but the real problem is fire commissioners! in E. Mudhole they have SIX spare chiefs cars Too pick up trucks a van and THREE unmarked tahoe's for the fire commissioners to take and use for weeks at a time with out having to answer to anyone, And don't forget the District Supivisor who gets an unmarked car and he lives about 8 blocks from the district building. Those are the things that the taxpayers should not have to be paying for. These commisioners are criminals and should get the boot.

[Unregisteredfffddd]

If I here one more guy say how he left his family at a dinner or a mall or school play i will throw up. You ran for office so either step down or shut up, as far as chiefs cars nothing wrong with the chiefs having them while in office but the real problem is fire commissioners! in E. Mudhole they have SIX spare chiefs cars Too pick up trucks a van and THREE unmarked tahoe's for the fire commissioners to take and use for weeks at a time with out having to answer to anyone, And don't forget the District Supivisor who gets an unmarked car and he lives about 8 blocks from the district building. Those are the things that the taxpayers should not have to be paying for. These commisioners are criminals and should get the boot.

I want to get to you before the retards on this rant do. They are going to say that you cannot spell, they are also going to say that their commissioners do not have these luxeries and that they have no money for these types of items... well sir I agree with the cotent of what you said... and if I did not I can assure you that I would not bring up those points I listed above like these idiots do on this stupid rant...

[Unregisteredwhatever!!]

I want to get to you before the retards on this rant do. They are going to say that you cannot spell, they are also going to say that their commissioners do not have these luxeries and that they have no money for these types of items... well sir I agree with the cotent of what you said... and if I did not I can assure you that I would not bring up those points I listed above like these idiots do on this stupid rant...


Sheesh You can't spell either What the hell!!

[Coram Firefighter]

Call Coram they will fix it

[goldmember88]

If I here one more guy say how he left his family at a dinner or a mall or school play i will throw up. You ran for office so either step down or shut up, as far as chiefs cars nothing wrong with the chiefs having them while in office but the real problem is fire commissioners! in E. Mudhole they have SIX spare chiefs cars Too pick up trucks a van and THREE unmarked tahoe's for the fire commissioners to take and use for weeks at a time with out having to answer to anyone, And don't forget the District Supivisor who gets an unmarked car and he lives about 8 blocks from the district building. Those are the things that the taxpayers should not have to be paying for. These commisioners are criminals and should get the boot.

Spoken like a true bitter member.... Guess you couldn't drum up anybody to talk on your East Meadow blog..... Good to hear from you.

[Unregisteredfd]

overtaxed payer does your ass have teeth? cuz that is what you are talking out of. you and that bitch from newsday can go fuck off. you have no fucking idea what most of us go through everyday being in the fire service. you bitch about our so called "perks", you want the perks then join. see what it really takes. O and the chief car thing that you got your panties in a bunch about. you think those guys run for chief because they get a free fucking car. you have no idea how much bullshit comes with that car. they do it because they want to, not because they get a "free" fucking car. bottom line is you got shit for brains, you have no idea what your talking about. so shut the fuck up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[UnregisteredJoisey]

How many NC Chief Luxury SUV's will be patrolling the NJ Pike the next few days going to & fro Baltimore??????????????????

[UnregisteredIfeelyourpain]

overtaxed payer does your ass have teeth? cuz that is what you are talking out of. you and that bitch from newsday can go fuck off. you have no fucking idea what most of us go through everyday being in the fire service. you bitch about our so called "perks", you want the perks then join. see what it really takes. O and the chief car thing that you got your panties in a bunch about. you think those guys run for chief because they get a free fucking car. you have no idea how much bullshit comes with that car. they do it because they want to, not because they get a "free" fucking car. bottom line is you got shit for brains, you have no idea what your talking about. so shut the fuck up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YOU choose to join and receive "the benefits", so don't complain!

[Unregisteredfd]

your the only one complaining about our "Perks".

[drill teams suck]

You Rant And Rave, But I Can Be 100000% Sure That You Are A Lame Ass That Wants Only Freebies And Does Not Show Up To Anything Till The Truck Leaves The Barn.


Maybe You Should Wipe Your Mouth When You Release Mommys Nipple!

[Unregisteredi95]

How many NC Chief Luxury SUV's will be patrolling the NJ Pike the next few days going to & fro Baltimore??????????????????

i'm in my luxary suite now using wireless internet paid for by u scumbag taxpayers. i drove my big gas guzzling fd suburban which cost u over $150 in fuel and tolls. thanks alot for my free vacation to drink and party all week long scumbags!

[Unregisteredexpo]

Nice message troll, keep the flames burning azzwipe

[joski]

chiefs become chiefs c ause all there drinking buddies put them in........its not what you know its who you know cars should be for dept use only

[shutupazzhole]

Shut the fk up Joski! No one is asking u for your stupid opinions!

[joski]

Sounds Like You Suck Your Chiefs Dick Often.......... Look Over Your Shoulder The Paid Guys R Coming ....then Where Does Your Free Beer Come From............ex Chief Tob

[whoa,whoa]

Sounds Like You Suck Your Chiefs Dick Often.......... Look Over Your Shoulder The Paid Guys R Coming ....then Where Does Your Free Beer Come From............ex Chief Tob

You are saying that you are an Ex from the first? Did I get that right?
Me thinks you are a troll, you are all over this slam site. (from Coram to Bellmore from your posts..) Me thinks you are chair jockey, probably at a number of dispatch boards. Bet you got a leatherman in a pouch on your belt along with a scanner in the back pocket and at least two pagers on.

[joski]

and if i had a free beer in each hand and someones wife in my bed..i could be in the coram fd

[YEP!]

and if i had a free beer in each hand and someones wife in my bed..i could be in the coram fd

Good comeback! Never answered the question. Now your an expert on Coram, before it was stirring $hit at Bab Central, Bellmore Ambo, Lindy and just about anything slow on here...

Pull up your pants, all the buff gear is pulling them down you wanna be.

[joski]

hey vollie talk about a want to be whats the matter couldnt make it in the fdny your a vollie get over it being a vollie and 99 cents gets you a double cheese at mcdonalds......put that in your dusty bunker pants

[Unregister]

You cant win that one dude. They cry and cry about how they get up at 3am....so they deserve a free car, free gas, and free insurance
you jerk offs should try and do it, oh wait that is why you assholes are here on the nnnnnnnn Report complaining about it.

[Unregistered111]

Hi

[Unregisteredhfd]

For those of you who dont know any better, don't believe the "poor us - we have to bid - lowest bidder", etc nonsense.

Its Called "Sole Source Procurement". Its how districts avoid the competitive bidding process. Set yourself up with a specification list that no one else can provide at a cost no one can provide, and voila! You get to be the unofficial-official provider of X product to your local Fire District.

How does Hicksville have every piece of apparatus a Sutphin?
How do many districts deal with a single consistent vehicle dealer for Chiefs Cars?
Only a few examples of yet another lie perpetrated by the Districts.

[goldmember88]

For those of you who dont know any better, don't believe the "poor us - we have to bid - lowest bidder", etc nonsense.

Its Called "Sole Source Procurement". Its how districts avoid the competitive bidding process. Set yourself up with a specification list that no one else can provide at a cost no one can provide, and voila! You get to be the unofficial-official provider of X product to your local Fire District.

How does Hicksville have every piece of apparatus a Sutphin?
How do many districts deal with a single consistent vehicle dealer for Chiefs Cars?
Only a few examples of yet another lie perpetrated by the Districts.

Guess the BOFC didnt accept your bid...... CRY BABY.

[Unregisteredcrybaby]

For those of you who dont know any better, don't believe the "poor us - we have to bid - lowest bidder", etc nonsense.

Its Called "Sole Source Procurement". Its how districts avoid the competitive bidding process. Set yourself up with a specification list that no one else can provide at a cost no one can provide, and voila! You get to be the unofficial-official provider of X product to your local Fire District.

How does Hicksville have every piece of apparatus a Sutphin?
How do many districts deal with a single consistent vehicle dealer for Chiefs Cars?
Only a few examples of yet another lie perpetrated by the Districts.

Must be the azzholes from KME or E-One posting this crap. Hey get over it losers!

[leaky pipe and drain]

look at me, sooooooo pretty in my car.

[Real difference]

My goodness; I finally had to respond to this pettiness. Are you kidding? On State bid, what is the difference? I do not begrudge any fool, in this day and age of INGRATITUDE, any perk that convinces them to do this very inconvienient job for nothing. A paid Chief would have regular off time and make in Salary , AND A REAL PENSION, much much more. What 60-75,000 a year plus 30-40,000 not 7,000 in pension. Grow up people. Get lives, BITCH about the $750 in oil I just put in my house for 1 lousy fill. Or maybe the $4 a gallon we'll be paying in gas this summer. No wonder they get away with this shit-people are too busy complaining about petty, pennies on here. Spend this time writing congress, blogging your local Senators instead. Make a REAL difference on real issues.

If you think writing to your congressman or senators is going to make a difference, I would advise you to save your time and start saving the next $750 (most likely $850) for your next fill-up. The pols got us into this mess.

[Unregisteredhfd]

It is a scam. Thats all.

[Unregisteredtruth]

It is a scam. Thats all.

So, run for the BOFC like the savior MIKE from EMFD.

[can't see the forest]

Are you all kidding me? For $300-$500 a year ,on average ,for free fire and ambulance services 24/7, this is what you spend hours complaining about! My one month fuel bill this year will be 4 times that. My school taxed are 10x that. How stupid are you people? Health care is 100x that and you'll die in the ER on a stretcher. What makes you focus on this $1 a day tax? Talk about missing the forest for the trees. No wonder the repubs have such an easy time screwing us. We are too busy back biting our volunteer neighbors with petty jealousies. GROW UP.

[How little]

Are you all kidding me? For $300-$500 a year ,on average ,for free fire and ambulance services 24/7, this is what you spend hours complaining about! My one month fuel bill this year will be 4 times that. My school taxed are 10x that. How stupid are you people? Health care is 100x that and you'll die in the ER on a stretcher. What makes you focus on this $1 a day tax? Talk about missing the forest for the trees. No wonder the repubs have such an easy time screwing us. We are too busy back biting our volunteer neighbors with petty jealousies. GROW UP.

What is the minimum amount of theft that can occur before I object to it? I don't want to complain if their not steeling enough. The fire districts are no better than enyone else. If it's stealing, it's stealing. I don't care if they put out a thousand fires a day, that does not entitle them to steal. Should we wait until it,s 10x or 100x more than it is now. I see my fire district wasting money like there is an endless supply. Should I ignore that because people volunteer to be firemen? I don't think so.

[Please get over it]

Make an official compaint in writing and sign your name. I am sure they will get back to you and modify the rules for the Chief's or tell you why they do what they do. What is with this "angry internet site"? Are you all ball less or just have gone the regular route and gotten nowhere? If I'm a Chief and the Commissioners know where my car is and approve it, and I am available were and when then need me and they are happy with that, what is the problem?

[Unregistered9876]

What is the minimum amount of theft that can occur before I object to it? I don't want to complain if their not steeling enough. The fire districts are no better than enyone else. If it's stealing, it's stealing. I don't care if they put out a thousand fires a day, that does not entitle them to steal. Should we wait until it,s 10x or 100x more than it is now. I see my fire district wasting money like there is an endless supply. Should I ignore that because people volunteer to be firemen? I don't think so.


Ther is a huge difference between "wasting money"(in YOUR opinion) and Stealing!!! If you don't know the difference, you can't be helped. Most posts are not about illegal activity but people micro managing their volunteer depts which, again, for 300 a year is a big waste of your effort. How about spending your valuable time scrutinizing where your tax dollars go to fund oil companies or drug companies? Start a web site or blog mudslinging there. Who knows, maybe it'll gat Newsday's attention and they'll put a 20 million a year oil CEOs face on the cover instead of an unpaid Commissioner.
And I have no illusions about the arrogance of some of these guys-but they are doing for nothing what most of us can't be bothered to do.

[Soooo True But]

Ther is a huge difference between "wasting money"(in YOUR opinion) and Stealing!!! If you don't know the difference, you can't be helped. Most posts are not about illegal activity but people micro managing their volunteer depts which, again, for 300 a year is a big waste of your effort. How about spending your valuable time scrutinizing where your tax dollars go to fund oil companies or drug companies? Start a web site or blog mudslinging there. Who knows, maybe it'll gat Newsday's attention and they'll put a 20 million a year oil CEOs face on the cover instead of an unpaid Commissioner.
And I have no illusions about the arrogance of some of these guys-but they are doing for nothing what most of us can't be bothered to do.

The people you mention have the cash and discipline to defend themselves. FASNY will side with the politicos and we spend all out time trashing each other here giving others ammunition to destroy us.

[leaky slop sink]

i AM THE CHIEF, AND DO AS i SAY. i CANNOT WAIT TILL YOU ARE VOTED OUT IN THE NEXT ELECTION. bOO HOO, SOO MANY TEARS, SOO LITTLE TIME.

[Unregistered///]

Get Em Bikes

[Unregistered???]

How Much?

[Unregistered$$$$$]

$$$$$