RECALL: Past, present & future

During the past two weeks, articles by Mr. Green and Mr. Shelton have unfairly maligned local citizens within the Mica Kidd Island Fire District (MKIFD). While our veterans paid the ultimate price to enable free speech, I find such public personal attacks disappointing. An opportunity to graciously accept the local citizens’ decision was unfortunately lost.

While questions did exist regarding meeting legalities, there were several other factors behind the recall. I’m confident that had Mr. Shelton represented the views openly shared by many of his MKIFD District 2 constituents, those same constituents would have never initiated the recall effort. Elected leaders must remember who they represent — the people.

Absurd claims have also arisen, indicating petitioners wanted to eliminate our fire district. I’d challenge those to find anyone within our district that does not value and sincerely appreciate the contributions of each and every volunteer firefighter or EMT.

MKIFD has a proud volunteer history; however in-district volunteerism has fallen dramatically in the past few years. Recently, nearly 50 percent of able-bodied district residents had their volunteer applications rejected without explanation; several of whom had openly supported the recall. As a community, we cannot let partisanship impact our safety. We can and must do better!

The voter turnout clearly indicates a large contingent of interested and passionate MKIFD citizens; let’s capitalize on that and move forward. While some may not have the physical ability to be a firefighter or time/training to be an EMT, certainly we can find options for all interested residents to serve their community. Under the MKIFD Board’s direction, I’m confident that Chief Blubaum can develop a menu of volunteer opportunities to provide such inclusivity.

The past is past. Let’s learn from it and move forward as a dynamic, supportive community.

GERRY WILSON

Coeur d’Alene