05/19/2017
Press Release
UPLAND FIREFIGHTERS ENDORSE COUNTY ANNEXATION
The Upland Professional Firefighters would like to provide comment on the recent events in Upland, regarding the transition to the San Bernardino County Fire Department. There have been many rumors and misstatements regarding the transition process as well as the feelings of the Upland Firefighters.
The Upland Firefighters without reservation endorse the annexation process and fully support the move of Fire Services to the County of San Bernardino.
Over the course of the past few years, the City of Upland and it’s City Council have not supported the fire department in terms of maintaining its ability to properly provide adequate fire services to the Upland Community. The condition of the Fire Department in Upland has eroded to a dangerous situation. Apparatus are failing, facilities are in need of major repair, and the overall staffing of the department is inadequate for the demands of Upland.
The San Bernardino County Fire Department is without a doubt, the best option moving forward for the City of Upland. The county relies on economies of scale, focuses it’s resources and strategic planning on enhancing Fire and EMS services to the communities they serve.
The resources that the County can provide to the residents of Upland far surpass that of it’s current capabilities.
The Fire Department Annexation into San Bernardino County is a decision that will cost the residents a bit more as far as their property taxes, and Upland will give over Fire assets. But this move is one that will undoubtedly save lives and property. It will also lift a significant financial burden off of the city so that they can focus on other financial needs such as City Police and infrastructure which are equally important to Fire Services. Upland will not have to worry about the increasing demands on Fire and EMS services,and they will not need to replace the up to 3 million dollars in aging fire apparatus.
The Upland Firefighters are proud to call the County their new home, and are anxious to be a part of a professional organization that focuses on utilizing vast resources to enhance public safety across the County. The dedication and professionalism of San Bernardino County Fire is second to none and the residents of Upland should be honored to be served by them.
There have been many false statements made by concerned residents of Upland and San Antonio Heights about the annexation process. All Upland Firefighters will keep their jobs. The County is also committed to keeping a majority of the most knowledgeable firefighters here in the City. Lastly, the Upland Firefighters are not under threat of losing our jobs, causing us to stay silent. We are happy to move forward in this process and respect the political decisions that have been made. Our group of dedicated men and women are ready to move forward with the premier Fire Department in the Area.
Residents should think twice about protesting the annexation. A vote to protest this process most certainly could mean that you want to put your community at risk now and in the future.
The Upland Firefighters ask that all Upland and San Antonio Heights residents SUPPORT the annexation and stand up for protecting PUBLIC SAFETY.
Upland Firefighters