10/08/2024
The brothers in Londonderry need our support.
To the Citizens of Londonderry:
This past March, the citizens of Londonderry overwhelmingly supported Warrant Article 15, which called for the addition of four firefighters, ensuring that each shift would be staffed with 13 personnel. This decision, made by the community, prioritized public safety and provided our firefighters with the necessary resources to protect the town effectively.
However, town leadership has chosen not to follow the wishes of the community. Instead, they have unfairly placed blame on Chief Bo Butler for circumstances outside of his control. The Town Manager has now mandated that Chief Butler reduce staff from 13 to 11 members per shift, despite the clear directive from the voters. They have also threatened him with disciplinary action if he does not comply.
Chief Butler, a man of deep principles and unwavering integrity, refused to compromise the safety of our citizens or go against the will of the community. Last night, he made the difficult decision to resign from his position. His resignation is a tremendous loss for our department and town, but it is a testament to his dedication to doing what is right for the people of Londonderry.
This is not the first time that town leadership has disregarded the well-being of our citizens and employees. Last year, Town Manager Malaguti and Finance Director Campo instituted a town wide budget freeze, which led to a reduction in services, including the closure of the Central Engine Company. Despite these cuts, the town ended the fiscal year with a budget surplus of nearly $600,000, which will likely be deposited into the undesignated fund balance. This surplus was achieved at the expense of the community’s safety and the well-being of all town employees.
We call on town leadership to respect the wishes of the people of Londonderry and honor the staffing levels that were approved by the voters. Public safety must not be compromised for financial maneuvering, and our firefighters should not be forced to work under conditions that put them and the community at greater risk.
We ask for your continued support as we advocate for the safety and well-being of Londonderry and its first responders.
Sincerely,
Christopher A. Schofield
President
Local 3160
603-897-9517
