03-28-09, Letter by Bruce Philpott that the Glendale News-Press Refused to Publish Regarding Criticism of Philpott by Former Glendale Fire Chief Donald Biggs

OPEN LETTER TO GLENDALE VOTERS IN RESPONSE TO A COMMUNITY COMMENTARY PUBLISHED IN THE GLENDALE NEWS PRESS

My platform of restoring fiscal solvency to Glendale is much bigger than the fire department budget. The fire budget is merely one part of a citywide problem of runaway overtime, exorbitant compensation packages and more than generous pensions that are being given to a workforce that has grown six times faster than the general population. The poor financial condition of Glendale cannot be corrected merely through savings safely derived from the fire department alone. The savings I am advocating within the fire department only represents 20% of the cost reductions needed to balance the Government Fund Account. All departments must be scrutinized and comparable savings must come from other departments as well. The public will soon realize after the election how dire the city’s financial condition is in, whether I am elected or not.

I have warned my supporters to expect a fear campaign with claims that my fire-staffing model is not safe, even though it was developed by former fire chiefs from cities like Riverside, San Jose, San Mateo, West Covina, Pasadena and Alhambra. These retired fire chiefs developed these models as safe methods to cut costs while maintaining effective and safe fire services. These retired chiefs are not beholden to the fire unions.

Former Glendale Fire Chiefs Biggs and Hinz, didn’t tell the public that the model of fire protection I am proposing is the one now in effect for the city of La Canada Flintridge and the unincorporated areas of La Crescenta. I have spoken with many people who reside in these areas and none has expressed any concern about their safety. Mike Antonovich, in a conversation I had with him on Saturday, March 14 of this year, told me that he has not received one complaint in his many years as County Supervisor regarding the current level of staffing of fire engines.

By adopting the model of La Canada Flintridge, Glendale taxpayers will save $8 million per year. A little known fact is that the Glendale Fire Department safely staffs with three every day on more than one engine company without any problems.

I have faith that Glendale voters will examine the facts, separate out the fear tactics of self-interest, and make an informed decision at the ballot box.