Election 2001 Lopez fire district commissioner race

San Juan County Fire Protection District #4 Commissioner, Position #2 Candidate John Goekler

Why are you running?

Because we need the best possible fire department. It’s the one organization on the island with the personnel, training, and facilities to respond to a wide variety of challenges. I think I can help improve its financial management and oversight, long-range strategic planning, and customer service.

Why do you think you are a qualified candidate?

My background is in for-profit and non-profit business management. I also have firefighting experience with the department. I’m a communicator, facilitator, and strategic planner. Since I joined the board in January, we’ve trimmed the budget, improved financial accountability, appointed a Citizens Advisory Committee, and overhauled our maintenance program.

What is your long-range plan for the district?

First is developing professional financial and personnel management standards. Second is supporting our dedicated responders through expanded education and training. Third is communicating with our citizens to determine what services they want and are willing to pay for. Fourth is delivering these services in an efficient and effective way.

In light of the instability in the fire district over the past year, what do you see as your role in resolving those lingering issues?

It’s time to move beyond the past and think about our future. Since I joined the board in January, we’ve worked to create a new ethic in the department – one of honesty, communication and accountability. It takes a long time to rebuild trust, but I really believe we’re getting there.

San Juan County Fire Protection District #4 Commissioner, Position #2 Candidate Larry Schulze

Why are you running?

It has been my honor to serve the community of Lopez Island as fire chief for the past 15 years. It would be a great honor to continue serving both the community and the fire district as a commissioner.

Why do you think you are a qualified candidate?

For the past 15 years I have worked hand in hand with the board of fire commissioners putting together balanced budgets, purchasing state of the art equipment and developing policies and procedures that have made Lopez Fire and EMS the best small department around. My fire service background also includes an additional 15 years off island.

What is your long-range plan for the fire district?

The fire district developed a long-range strategic plan with the help of a consultant. I would like to dust it off and implement it.

In light of all the instability in the fire district over the past year, what do you see as your role in resolving these lingering issues?

Make sure who is ever hired as the new fire chief is given 100 percent support by the board so he or she can do the job they were hired for. Also a complete review of the policy manual is needed.

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