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Hernando Today

Residents Should Know What They'll Lose, Attorney Says

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By TONY HOLT

Published: July 9, 2008

SPRING HILL - Residents have a clear choice.

Either maintain control of their fire district or lose the only elected board they have.

That should be the main talking point for Spring Hill Fire Rescue employees whenever they are confronted with questions about the future of their department, said Andrew Salzman, the attorney who represents the district.

"In the past, when (independence) was voted down, things stayed the same … that is not the situation you're looking at now," he told the board of fire commissioners Wednesday.

He made broad suggestions about what firefighters should say whenever they are asked about November's referendum. Voters will decide then whether they want an independent fire district.

If they vote no, their fire services will remain under the control of the county and the board will be dissolved.

"You will lose complete representation by Spring Hill residents," Salzman warned.

Last month, union vice president Scott Edmisten brought the matter up to the board. He said firefighters get pelted with questions from residents about the referendum. He asked for some recommended "talking points."

"I think it needs to be brought out in black in white," said fire commissioner Rob Giammarco of the guidelines.

He also questioned whether firefighters should be discussing political matters while on duty. That prompted union president Troy Hagar to approach the podium and remind the board there is an existing policy regarding political discussion on the job. It's not allowed.

He suggested questions about what an independent district means or what a municipal service benefit unit is do not fall under what is defined as "political discussion."

Chief Mike Rampino agreed.

"Public discussion is not the same as political action," he said.

The talking points will be submitted to the board in the coming days by Salzman.

He predicted the process will be completed prior to the next board meeting, scheduled for July 23.

Reporter Tony Holt can be reached at 352-544-5283 or wholt@hernandotoday.com.

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