Fire Department Situation As I Know It
NWCA Members and North Westside Residents at RDCO
200530 Global News Kimberly Davidson Yesterday • 6:06 PM North Westside residents hold rally seeking answers after fire chief suspended (of fire Chief Jason Satterthwaite and his lieutenant Robert Gajda are not being released…)
200530 Castanet.net Wayne Moore May 30 • 4:00 AM North Westside residents claim bullying, harassment by RDCO (area director Wayne Carson. “We believe our fire department is being bullied and harassed by the…)
200529 – Castanet.net Wayne Moore • 4:00 AM North Westside residents gather to support suspended fire chief (Regional district area director Wayne Carson, himself a former North Westside fire chief, and other…)
200526 – Fire Chief suspended is the headline on Castanet Kelowna for May 26 2020 This is a story that started making the rounds through the community last weekend with the Facebook Page “People of the North Westside”, the local news source for many residents. It was not long before my phones and emails lit up with people outraged that their fire department was facing this type of challenge when still managing the COVID19 Pandemic and on the cusp of what predicted by the provincial government to be a major wildfire season.
The the Morning Star did an article North Westside residents shocked at fire chief’s suspension based on an interview with the President of the North Westside Communities Association. For more information see the NWCA Newsletter.
As well Castanet published a second article Board to discuss suspensions with the veiled threats of censure and sanction (aimed at me I guess as they put my picture on the story yet I was given NO opportunity to respond to this fake news) for the release of in camera information. In my defense I am not on the fire department, firefighters have been instructed not to talk to me their elected representative, I have received no information from anyone at the RDCO and I was not in any HR meetings. I learned everything (sadly) from Facebook (2nd hand, as I do not participate on Facebook) phone calls and emails from outraged citizens. What I attempted to do at the Board Meeting was to move a motion for an outside agency preferably the Office of the Fire Commissioner to intercede on behalf of the community and mediate a solution with all parties to maintain this most essential local service. The OFC is the legal authority for fire departments in BC and are a highly trained fire service officers who have the experience and respect needed to bring a fair resolution to the problem.
With the high level of distrust between the North Westside Residents and the RDCO Management (as documented in the NORTH WESTSIDE SERVICES AND COMMUNITY ISSUES REVIEW_FINAL REPORT ) an independent review of fire department members concerns should be conducted ASAP is the message from the residents, loud and clear.
Below are emails I received from residents in support of the NWFR and RDCO Board responses:
RDCO Board Responses
Update: This Post contains many emails to the RDCO Chair & Board Members on the fire department suspensions. Here are the responses received:
Chair Given
Thank you for your email. We want residents to know that your safety and protection is and always has been a top priority for us.
We have taken steps to ensure there is strong leadership and continuity in providing fire and first responder services in your community. Paid-on-call members of the department remain highly committed and dedicated to providing fire protection and first medical response service when called on to do so in their community to help their neighbours. There has not been any change in service provided by the fire department. If residents call 9-1-1 and ask for the fire department, members will be there to respond to their needs. Deputy Chief Mike Cantryn is leading the department in the short term and has the support of RDCO Fire Services Manager Ross Kotscherofski.
With respect to the human resources matter you note in your email, out of respect for privacy of those people involved and in accordance with Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy legislation, the Regional District cannot provide any details. The RDCO does not publicly discuss the reasoning behind its employment decisions. That is not just the case at present but is always the case. This would hold with all RDCO fire department employees or any other department that provides services for the Electoral Area.
Regards, Gail Given
Regional Board Chair
Director Fortin
Thank you for your email expressing your concerns about the suspension of North Westside Fire Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Lt. Rob Gajda.
I apologize for the delayed response, as I required some days off to move into my new home. I also needed some time to try to better understand the situation that occurred with your fire chief and his lieutenant. Although, I must admit there has been very little, if not any, information provided by the RDCO Chair or CAO to Board directors at this time.
The decision to suspend Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Lt. Robert Gajda is obviously very upsetting to many residents of the North Westside.
(Due to the high volume of emails I have received from residents, I am sending the same response to all. But I assure you that I have read each and every one of your emails.)
It was suggested on some emails that there be a third party investigation into the validity of these suspensions. I wholeheartedly agree. However, to get a majority of votes on this issue may be difficult.
It has also been noted in one of your emails that “The RDCO will not communicate this decision saying they are protecting the privacy of Jason Satterthwaite and Robert Gajda.” While I understand the importance of privacy, a possible solution may be to have a representative of the North Westside contact those two gentlemen and get written and signed permission from them for their situations to be discussed publicly. I’m not sure if that will suffice, but it could help. However, they may not want this discussed publicly. I don’t know, as I have not spoken to either of them.
I understand the need for transparency, which was noted in several emails. However, it is extremely difficult for me and other directors to be transparent when we are not informed, ourselves. This includes your Electoral Director, Wayne Carson, who, as I understand, was mostly left out of the loop, himself. However, Director Carson is a very hard working and passionate representative of his Electoral Area and I’m certain he won’t give up until there are some answers.
It was said by a few people that while they are unhappy about the suspensions, they don’t won’t to see this issue used as a platform for self-governance. While I agree that these are two different issues, I do believe that self-governance may have given the residents of the North Westside and their representative more say in what happens in their community. I have always been a supporter of a study designed to delve deeper into the issue of self-governance or incorporation, and did not feel the one that was conducted met that need. I am also in support of a delegation coming to the Board on both these issues.
So I do understand your deep frustration and will work with Director Carson is any way I can to have the suspensions looked into. I’m not saying whether they are valid or not, just that we need more information. We have been told that this is strictly a Human Resources (HR) matter, but in my opinion to keep Director Carson out of the loop was wrong. As mayor of my community, something as big as this would absolutely have been shared with me, prior to it occurring, with a full explanation. After all, we are the elected officials, elected by the people of our communities to represent them.
I don’t know what more I can add at this point. If the RDCO Chair or CAO decide to take this to In-Camera we will be restricted from even discussing it.
Best regards, Director Cindy Fortin
Director Wayne Carson – Central Okanagan West
I would also like to respond to the dozens of emails from North Westside residents to the Regional Board. As Chair Given and Director Fortin have responded I felt as the elected representative for this area it essential to respond as well.
I was elected to represent this area, the NWFR department, its members and the residents they serve. It is unacceptable that I find out about significant fire department suspensions from a Facebook Post, and “details” from angry residents by email and phone, is this how it happens in town? I had no, and still have no information confidential or otherwise from the RDCO Administration or RDCO Board Chair and this is obviously a problem that has clearly been festering for months.
I have read all your emails and share in your concerns, but if allegations have been made they must be addressed and that will be in camera. I believe as many of you have suggested that in light of the strained relationship (identified in the North Westside Services and Issues Report) that an independent investigation is required to satisfy all parties involved. I do believe that a mediated arbitration should be conducted by the Office of the Fire Commissioner of BC with them reporting back to the Board, due to the HR nature of the issue again most likely in camera. OFC will have the trust and respect of the whole fire department and that is most important as the firefighters are what this has to be about. The community would see the OFC as an independent agency, tasked with administering the Fire Services Act, as well as most aspects of the Provincial and local delivery of emergency services and programs. The OFC also had a good working relationship with Local Government during the development and implementation of the Firefighters PlayBook applicable to all fire departments in BC. The OFC was also instrumental in resolving the Bowen Island fire department conflict last year, also an HR matter, so experienced in the field. I would have no problem moving forward with any decision the Fire Commissioner endorsed and I would hope the RDCO Administration and Board could do the same.
The most important aspect to this “issue” is to get the problem out of the fire department and headed in the direction of a resolution that everyone can move forward from. With COVID19, potential flooding and an aggressive wildfire season approaching it is critical to keep the team on track, focused and feeling strongly supported by everyone.
Wayne Carson
Central Okanagan West Director
From: Stewart.MLA, Ben
Sent: Monday, June 08, 2020 2:02 PM
To: Shannon O’Brien
Cc: ggiven@kelowna.ca; Wayne Carson
Subject: RE: North Westside RDCO
Hi Shannon,
On behalf of MLA Ben Stewart, thank you for sharing you concerns regarding the RDCO. I believe this matter is something concerned residents should take up with the RDCO. Human Resource matters are always sensitive matters due to the privacy of the impacted staff.
I look forward to the RDCO’s board making information about this matter, available when appropriate.
Thank you for your concerns as a resident of the North Westside community.
Sincerely, Chris Foreman, M.A.
Constituency Assistant
| Ben Stewart, MLA
Kelowna West Office: (250) 768-8426 E-mail: christopher.foreman@leg.bc.ca |
From: Shannon O’Brien
Sent: Saturday, June 6, 2020 10:27 PM
To: Stewart.MLA, Ben
Subject: North Westside RDCO
Mr. Ben Stewart,
I am writing to express concern around how the residents of the North Westside are treated by RDCO. Our previous Fire Chief was pressured until the only option was to resign as was the Assistant Chief. Currently our Fire Chief has been suspended indefinitely with a gag order as well as one of our lieutenants. We have very few local services and as a community are very proud of our Fire Department. Our area is large with several seasonal residents, we should still be treated respectfully, have equal representation ( Wayne Carson works very hard to represent us) and have the same benefits as others in the Regional District. We have requested Self governance but the RDCO squashed us at every turn.
Just a concerned citizen/ tax payer who wishes to enjoy all the benefits that are offered in the Regional District.
Sincerely, Shannon O’Brien
297 Shorts Rd
Resident E-mails
Hello Jack,
Let me introduce myself. My name is Ingrid Bester and my family live in upper Killiney Beach. We moved here 3 years ago after retiring. We chose here for the peace, quiet, beauty but mainly for the secure knowledge of a quick response team of fire fighters and first responders just a few km from our home. We chose here for all these reasons so that we would NOT have to live in town.
I am aware that you’ve met with with the RDCO this morning however I still feel I need to voice my absolute extremely angry and very disappointment at the lack of my family’s and community safety now that we no longer have access to a fully functioning fire department in our community. A large amount of my taxes is allocated to keeping a fully functioning, competent and reliable fire department in our community.
I have an 80year old mother who lives with us and now, in a life threatening emergency, I know we would not have the support of a quick response from what was a reliable and extremely competent fire department.
My family and I do not have any confidence in the RDCO to care about my and my families safety and we do not appreciate the dictatorship attitude we feel we are now being subjected to by the RDCO.
This situation is unacceptable. We wonder whether this community would be in the same situation if the likes of Gail Given, many others on the Board or their family were to be living in this community.
Yours Ingrid Bester
Hello,
I have been a resident of west side road, Upper Killiney area for a few years now. I try to stay out of the Social media drama, but the news of this community not having a fire crew to protect us is EXTREMELY concerning.
The childish acts going on between the RDCO and this community are getting old and are being well noticed by the community members as well as outside members.
I would really appreciate a response from someone who can logically make sense of this situation and put that into words for me, and the rest of the community who are currently without a fire crew to protect us.
Make sense of your actions, explain how taking away our resources HELPS ANYONE?!
Lacee Giene
So now our whole fire dept. is in jeopardy and if there is a fire or an accident on Westside Rd, there is only a small number of inexperienced fire fighters left. !0 people handed in their papers because there has been no action to hold an independent review of the dismissal of our chief and Lt. I live at Killiney Beach and we are now in grave danger. At the very least our people should be re-instated while an independent review is held so we are not left unsafe. Government needs to be transparent and open in their dealings and we should have a say in what we want in our own district. Petty differences and personal grievances have no place when it comes to the responsibilities held by public officials. I have seen this happen out here before where someone used their power to push others around because of their own personal agenda. We have enough to worry about now and this needs to be fixed immediately. Watching our chief work in our community gives me reassurance that he could not have done something so wrong that he would have to be let go.
Tina Miller
What the heck is going on?
I am a concerned resident and mother who lives next to crown land covered in debris that the North West Fire Dept was planned to clean up to reduce our fire risk.
With our chief and lieutenant being “let go” with a gag order no everyone is left scratching their heads.
I am in full support of our fire crew handing in their pagers in support of the team and getting things back to normal.
But this is just the beginning of fire season and quite frankly, terrifying.
Clearly someone from RDCO has a personal agenda here.
Who is going to step up to make things right?
Jennifer Henderson
To Wayne Carson,
I am writing to express concern around how the residents of the North Westside are treated by RDCO. Our previous Fire Chief was pressured until the only option was to resign as was the Assistant Chief. Currently our Fire Chief has been suspended indefinitely with a gag order as well as one of our lieutenants. We have very few local services and as a community are very proud of our Fire Department. Our area is large with several seasonal residents, we should still be treated respectfully, have equal representation ( Wayne Carson works very hard to represent us) and have the same benefits as others in the Regional District. We have requested Self governance but the RDCO squashed us at every turn.
Just a concerned citizen/ tax payer who wishes to enjoy all the benefits that are offered in the Regional District.
Sincerely,
Shannon O’Brien 297 Shorts Rd
Dear Gail Given,
I know that this community is pressing you for answers. My intention is not to unearth personal details or invade anyone’s privacy. I am simply wondering if there is some way in which you could make this a win-win scenario for everyone. Naive of me I know! But I thought it might be worth a try. You see, our whole Fire Department is now broken with the loss of those two gentlemen. So is this community and it may very well backfire on you. On paper you have stated that it’s all carrying on, business as usual, but I can surely tell you that on the ground, it is not. There are some individuals that are not so easily replaced.
I have dealt with RDCO numerous times in recent years when it came to inquiries about lots, overseeing the building of several homes as an owner/builder, meeting with your building inspectors etc. I have encountered nothing but kind, caring and helpful professionals. I just can’t help but be saddened by these recent developments though. Please give us our guys back.
Sincerely, Linda Riley
On Monday, June 1, 2020, 02:32:52 PM PDT, Regional Board <regionalboard@rdco.com> wrote:
Dear Ms. Riley,
Thank you for your email. We recognize there has been significant reaction in your community and want residents to know that your safety and protection is and always has been a top priority for us.
With respect to thehuman resources matter you note in your email, out of respect for privacy of those people involved and in accordance with Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy legislation, the Regional District cannot provide any details. The RDCO does not publicly discuss the reasoning behind its employment decisions. That is not just the case at present but is always the case. This would hold with all RDCO fire department employees or any other department that provides services for the Electoral Area.
Keeping the community’s best interests in mind, we have taken steps to ensure there is strong leadership and continuity in providing fire and first responder services in your community. Paid-on-call members of the department remain highly committed and dedicated to providing fire protection and first medical response service when called on to do so in their community to help their neighbours. There has not been any change in service provided by the fire department. If residents call 9-1-1 and ask for the fire department, members will be there to respond to their needs. Deputy Chief Mike Cantryn is leading the department in the short term and has the support of RDCO Fire Services Manager Ross Kotscherofski.
Regards,
Gail Given
Regional Board Chair
Regional District of Central Okanagan
250-469-6224 | gail.given@rdco.com
Dear Ms Given,
This does not answer our request that a third party investigation be done not an internal one by the RDCO.
Marias-Anne & Rick Sanderson
293 Shorts Rd
From: Regional Board [mailto:regionalboard@rdco.com]
Sent: June 1, 2020 2:28 PM
Subject: FW: SUSPENSION OF JASON SATTERTHWAITE AND LT. ROB GAJDA
Dear Mr. and Ms. Sanderson,
Thank you for your email. We want residents to know that your safety and protection is and always has been a top priority for us.
We have taken steps to ensure there is strong leadership and continuity in providing fire and first responder services in your community. Paid-on-call members of the department remain highly committed and dedicated to providing fire protection and first medical response service when called on to do so in their community to help their neighbours. There has not been any change in service provided by the fire department. If residents call 9-1-1 and ask for the fire department, members will be there to respond to their needs. Deputy Chief Mike Cantryn is leading the department in the short term and has the support of RDCO Fire Services Manager Ross Kotscherofski.
With respect to the human resources matter you note in your email, out of respect for privacy of those people involved and in accordance with Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy legislation, the Regional District cannot provide any details. The RDCO does not publicly discuss the reasoning behind its employment decisions. That is not just the case at present but is always the case. This would hold with all RDCO fire department employees or any other department that provides services for the Electoral Area.
Regards,
Gail Given
Regional Board Chair
Regional District of Central Okanagan
250-469-6224 | gail.given@rdco.com
Subject: SUSPENSION OF JASON SATTERTHWAITE AND LT. ROB GAJDA
Good day,
As longtime residents of Fintry Delta and supporters and previous Assistant Chief of the North Westside Fire Department we are again dismayed by the RDCO.
We demand a third party investigation into the conduct of the RDCO & the validity of the suspensions. We look forward to our Chief and his Lt being reinstated as soon as possible.
We look forward to your prompt attention to this matter.
Marias-Anne & Rick Sanderson
293 Shorts Rd
Good day,
I write to you today to bring a matter to your attention regarding the suspensions of Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Lt. Robert Gajda. This unfortunate decision is being used as a platform by some North Westside Community members to obtain signatures for the petition to self-govern and the idea is beginning to gain traction. I don’t believe this is in your best interests or the community as a whole. Were you to consider re-instating these trusted and valued members of our fire department I truly believe that all this talk would fade away and go back to the closet it came from. The majority of us that live out here don’t want to sign that petition. I appeal to you to reconsider your decision, keeping everyone’s best interests in mind.
Regards, Linda Riley
Good day,
As longtime residents of Fintry Delta and supporters and previous Assistant Chief of the North Westside Fire Department we are again dismayed by the RDCO.
We demand a third party investigation into the conduct of the RDCO & the validity of the suspensions. We look forward to our Chief and his Lt being reinstated as soon as possible.
We look forward to your prompt attention to this matter.
Marias-Anne & Rick Sanderson
293 Shorts Rd
Dear Mr. Blair,
I am a resident of the north Westside rd of Central Okanagan and would like to voice my concerns over the suspension of our fire chief, Jason Satterthwaite and his deputy assistant Robert Gajda by the RDCO.
No reason was given for their suspension. The RDCO will not communicate this decision saying they are protecting the privacy of Jason Satterthwaite and Robert Gajda.
The RDCO has a history of lack of communication, transparency and effective representation of the wants of the people of the North Westside of central Okanagan.
I’m asking for an investigation into the conduct of the RDCO and their decision to suspend Jason Satterthwaite and Robert Gajda.
We are fast approaching fire season in the Okanagan and feel our fire department and community spirit has been broken.
I would appreciate a response from you.
Sincerely, Elisabeth Howelljensen
Yes, and thank you! But it’s wrong to terminate these positions in this manner! I need to be consulted, my money should not be spent in this way.
Thank You Jacquie!
There seems to be a response from the RDCO but all that appears is:
> On May 29, 2020, at 3:28 PM, Regional Board <regionalboard@rdco.com> wrote:
>
Just as long as you are aware that the community will fight for those 2 gentlemen.
No matter the results, We are going to be asking For an independent study of this situation.
If this situation is due to the offer of an isolation location or due to a question of equipment difference between two cities, that would be considered petty
My son is a volunteer fire fighter and questions regarding upgrading equipment should never be ignored or punished!!
Teresa Swystun
Dear Sir/Madam;
We are writing in support of our Fire Chief, Jason Satterthwaite, and all of his crew, and we are asking for the reasons for the Chief’s recent suspension to be made public.
Thank you.
Patricia and Dietrich Goldammer
I was shocked and very disappointed to hear about the fire chief suspension. We finally get a really good fire chief and you decide to get rid of him. I am wondering if it is like the time before when you put in a management person who needed an extra 8 months to get his pension. We paid for that he was no good at all and didn’t even live here. I have lived here for over 50 years and you really treat us poorly. I wish you to reinstate the two men immediately and let us get on with being safe. Respectfully submitted Diane Baker
Is there anything Our Fire Dept. can assist with?
Mike Doherty Deputy Fire Chief./ Training Officer
Okanagan Indian Band Fire Dept.
#4 Bonneau rd. Vernon, BC. V1H/2A8
(250) 308-4564 mikedoherty@shaw.ca
RDCO needs to be more informative, actions like this smack of the OLD Boys! Shocking and who is paying for this!
Jacquie Hayter
Jason and Rob are good members of our community and run a good team at the fire hall we support them Going into our fire season it is good to have a team that works well together. It seems to me that leaving us down 2 members including our chief is irresponsible. You leave our community at great risk. You have a history of getting rid of our fire chief. Maybe its not the fire chief problem but the board problem. Get it together and fix this and quit treating us out here like we are after thoughts, our houses and community are at risk
Lauren and Sherry Janzen
To whom it may concern,
I’m very upset to hear of the recent suspension of our fire chief, Jason Satterthwaite and Senior officer Robert Gajda.
Our fire department does an excellent job and I don’t understand why you suspended these two individuals. We’re going into fire season and I’m worried that this change will have a negative effect on the effectiveness of our fire department.
Please reconsider you’re decision to suspend Jason Satterthwaite and Robert Gajda.
Sincerely, Elisabeth Howelljensen
Good morning,
I have just recently heard of the suspension of Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Lt Robert Gajda and I am horrified. We depend on our local community fire department and volunteers to protect us in this fire prone area far from regular fire suppression services. These individuals have provided residents with a sense of security that was not present during the last temporary Fire Chief’s tenure. What does the RDCO consider reasonable cause for suspension with an essential service (leadership) with no indication of re-filling the positions immediately? Who is local and in charge now? Who will rally the volunteers as we approach fire and flood season?
The fire department here are our first responders as you well know. This is a time when we need leadership and inspiring and hopeful morale. I am shocked that no information has been provided and no names put forward to fill these positions during this “suspension.” I have an elderly mother living with me during this COVID time and my elderly neighbour is very ill. We want our first responder service operating and fully functional out of our local fire hall managed by our community members. Our experience here with the RDCO has not been responsive in the past. In fact, it has been hostile and dismissive. Is this the intent of the RDCO and its staff to be hostile and dismissive to us? It happens all the time during public meetings. One can just ask a question at a board meeting and be actively sneered at. What makes our community such a “problem” that NW individuals are treated with such contempt? The result has led to grave concerns about the leadership at the RDCO and suspicions regarding what possible dire behaviour these two individuals exhibited. At a time when a pandemic threatens our lives and our livelihoods, flooding is real and the fire season fast approaching, our fire department volunteers need leadership. Who will ensure we are provided with the resources needed? What about flood protection bags and sand? (The Okanagan Indian Band has taken care of this for their residents who live nearby for several weeks). Currently, my property is highly vulnerable to flood again, if the wind blows. Now. Who will organize these supplies for our residents? (The whole idea of “full pool” is a problem for many Okanagan Lake residents anyway besides any higher than normal lake levels.) Floods destroy public beaches at a cost to taxpayers (many now unemployed), degrades private property (and property values), is an insurance nightmare and has led to lower than normal counts of lake birds since 2017. I know because I see it every day. And this is just the beginning. We are almost an hour from help here.
We need to have transparency to assure us that these suspensions are a fair response, not a hostile one such as we have experienced repeatedly in the past. This hostility on the part of the Regional board and the District must end, it has gone on too long. NWside residents deserve to be treated with some dignity, please. Part of that is transparency and responsiveness.
Sincerely,
Judy Paterson (van Roggen)
As of May 21, 2020 the RDCO has “indefinitely” suspended NWFR Fire Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Lt. Robert Gajda. Why? The RDCO says, “this is a Human Resources issue and they can’t provide specific details.”
We call BS to this!
Why all the secrecy? I think it’s due to the fact that the protectors of our community are asking questions and RDCO is “flexing their muscles” to try to maintain their control.
This is our fire department, we pay 100% of the cost, we have a right to know what’s going on. We cannot stand by silently and let the RDCO continue to use these heavy-handed tactics and make reckless decisions without the knowledge, consultation or consent of our community. This is the time for our community to come together and support our firefighters and trust me we will.
I’m tired of people, who we pay, saying it’s personal, it’s HR, it’s none of your business…these 2 gentlemen are our business and we are going to fight for them!
The majority of the RDCO board have little interest in the community other then the money grab whether it be taxes or our over priced water, why not just keep it that way until we are in a position to govern ourselves (without RDCO blowhards).
Teresa Swystun
It has come to our attention that the RDCO has Dismissed two high ranking officials within the North Westside Fire and Rescue. Unfortunately the CAO Brian Reardon of the RDCO has refused to disclose the grounds for the “Indefinite” Dismissal of these two Officers within the Fire Department. Residents that live within the area being represented by the RDCO and its directors are loosing faith in the Regional District. Many questions are arising; as far the accountability to the area’s that the RDCO represent, in particular the Northwest side represented by elected director Wayne Carson.
1) Do Elected Regional Directors represent the majority public opinion of the Area they are elected into?
2) Was Director Carson, consulted by RDCO staff prior to the indefinite suspension of Fire Chief Jason Sattterthwaite?
3) Was Director Carson, consulted by RDCO staff prior to the indefinite suspension of LT Robert Gajde?
4) If Director Carson was not consulted how does the Board and RDCO ensure continuity between the Elected officials and RDCO staff for when decisions are to be made by Staff involving the Directors area?
I wish express my faith in NorthWestside Fire Rescue Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Senior Officer Robert Gajda. I sincerely hope that the RDCO will continue to support and trust the Northwest side Fire Department and the POC fire-fighters. NWFR is an innovated group of professionals supported by dedicated Paid-on-call firefighters. As a resident of North Westside I am extremely disappointed in the RDCO’s decision on May 21, 2020 to “indefinitely” suspend these two dedicated professionals. Chief Satterthwaite is exceptionally experienced and skilled and we are grateful to have him in this position and as member of our community. As a concerned regional area tax paying citizen, I encourage the RDCO Staff to re-visit and revert the suspension involving Chief Sattterthwaite and Senior Officer Robert Gajde.
Camille Steele
Another “great” move by the regional Dictatorship of central okanagan
We call BS to this!
Why all the secrecy?
This is our fire department, we pay 100% of the cost, we have a right to know what’s going on. We cannot stand by silently and let the RDCO continue to use these heavy-handed tactics and make reckless decisions without the knowledge, consultation or consent of our community. This is the time for our community to come together and support our firefighters and start asking questions.
Mike Vanderburg
To Whom It May Concern (Editor, Politician, Person-in-Charge-of-the-World):
I’m a long time resident of the North Westside Community (Killiney Beach) and was, for several years, active in our community association. There have been many eruptions in that time regarding the relations between the community and the Central Okanagan Regional District (RDCO). Generally speaking, most of these conflicts have arisen due to a lack of communication and/or a failure to consult between the two parties.
Lately, I’ve tended to stay out of the haggling and political mayhem. However, this latest, high-handed and insensitive act on the part of the RDCO has succeeded in dragging me out of my entropy.
What the (insert four-letter word indicating disgust) are those idiots in Kelowna doing firing (ok, make that “suspending”) our Fire Chief without any consultation with the community from whose taxes they take the Chiefs remuneration? Fire Chief, Jason Satterthwaite, has to be one of the the hardest working, dedicated and community-minded individuals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with! This latest example of high-handed, sneaky, backroom negotiation has our community in an uproar! And why are we having to hear about this brazen action from Castanet News?
I respectfully request that the RDCO pull their muzzy heads out of their obviously, infinitely fascinating navels and use their muzzled mouths to communicate To their taxpayers what the heck they’re up to this time.
Marsali MacIver
Dear Sirs,
I am a concerned citizen of the NWFR district and live in Westshore Estates. I would like to add my voice to express concern that as we are in the middle of a pandemic and we quickly approach a predicted very dry high risk fire season, that our fire fighters are down two very experienced and very key members of the team.
I understand that it is not your place to share why these men have been suspended, nor it is any of my business, but I would like you to know that both of them are highly respected in our community. If they are suspended, I assume they are still being paid and that two more team members cannot be hired until this situation is resolved. I urge you to reach a resolution very soon. Our community is looking for reassurances that our homes are safe and that the tax money that we pay for our fire department is being used appropriately.
Barbara Mulholland
P.S. If this is the response that you are going to send me, you might consider changing it up a bit. People in this community are close and we all share information. We all know that this is the “pat” “go away now” response that you send.
Thank you for your message. We understand your concerns heading into the fire season and that is why we want residents to know that your safety and protection is and always has been a top priority for us.
We have taken steps to ensure there is strong leadership and continuity in providing fire and first responder services in your community. Paid-on-call members of the department remain highly committed and dedicated to providing fire protection and first medical response service when called on to do so in their community to help their neighbours. There has not been any change in service provided by the fire department. If residents call 9-1-1 and ask for the fire department, members will be there to respond to their needs. Deputy Chief Mike Cantryn is leading the department in the short term and has the assistance and support of RDCO Fire Services Manager Ross Kotscherofski.
With respect to the two members of the NWFR service that you refer to in your message, as this is a human resources matter, out of respect for privacy of those people involved and in accordance with Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy legislation, the Regional District cannot provide any further details.
We wish to advise that the RDCO has given careful consideration and taken the necessary steps to ensure continuity and the long term success of our emergency response services as we move forward.
Our community is reeling in anger over the recent suspensions of 2 valued members of our fire dept. No reasons are given and as valued members of our community we deserve an explanation. We also should have the right to decide on who should be suspended since we afterall pay the bills. We have complete faith in our fire department. Petty diffences should be put aside and unless something in the extreme has happened the community wants these people back. Our chief has worked hard for our community and stood up for the people around him. It is important that government offices are transparent if you are to continue to have our faith and support. Rumors and divisions are not beneficial for anyone and in this stressful time especially detrimental. How many times does our community have to go through this? The community supports our chief and we want him reinstated immediately. An independant inquiry is needed if the regional district will not comply with our wishes. Thank you for your consideration.
Tina Miller
To Whom it May Concern,
I support the call for enquiry into the suspension of Fire Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Lt. Robert Gajda. Government must remain transparent and accountable to the taxpayer. As specific details are being held from the public, suspicion as to the validity of these actions will remain high.
Bonnie McKinnon
This is BS. The salaries of these people come out of my taxes. We have a right to know what is going on.
Jim Daynard
Hello,
My name is Jessica, I have lived on the North Westside for four years. I am a member of the NWCA and have worked closely with Jason and Rob throughout the years for a lot of community events and help raise money and good for families affected by fires I our community. I am appalled at the situation that has come forward in regards to Jason and Rob. I believe with the pandemic that is taking place in the world and wildfire season fast approaching that it is detrimental to our community to loose our chief and officer.
We would like answers as to why?? And believe their should be reconsideration and an outside investigation into the “indefinite suspension” of these two wonderful community members and top notch fire and rescue officers.
If this is not provided, we will have to take it steps further by us creating enough of a voice to have this matter investigated.
Tax paying citizen
Jessica
I am a resident and property owner here at 2 Alder Drive, V1H 2B9 and I respectfully request the reasons behind these suspensions referenced above be made public to those who reside in the RDCO.
I expect that you will provide this information post haste.
Gary & Sharron Dee
Brian first it didn’t go unnoticed you had no intention of listening and got up to leave right away when people started speaking to this matter at the meeting. Although we have confidence in the remaining volunteers to respond to emergency calls it would be foolish to expect the same level of effectiveness with less officers and a chief with invaluable knowledge of the area. Ten days before their suspension a bulletin is released warning of an expected extreme fire season. You’ve told us in advance to expect a bad fire season and then suspended absolutely vital personnel. The procedures and policies noted are just received as bureaucratic nonsense. I challenge you to prove me wrong. It has nothing to do with privacy of our firefighters and everything to do with protecting the board. I also suggest a conflict of interest in regards to these matters and your staff and insist on an independent investigation immediately. You have placed a gag order on these officers to protect the lack of justification in this matter. You should all be ashamed. Time to look in the mirror and make sure you feel the decisions made have warrant under a public microscope. This community will not stop pressuring this issue until all details are released or the officers are reinstated.
Sean Miller
Killiney Beach
On Tue, May 26, 2020, 11:36 AM Brian Reardon <brian.reardon@rdco.com> wrote:
Thank you for your email. We understand your concerns heading into the fire season and that is why we want residents to know that your safety and protection is and always has been a top priority for us.
We have taken steps to ensure there is strong leadership and continuity in providing fire and first responder services in your community. Paid-on-call members of the department remain highly committed and dedicated to providing fire protection and first medical response service when called on to do so in their community to help their neighbours. There has not been any change in service provided by the fire department. If residents call 9-1-1 and ask for the fire department, members will be there to respond to their needs. Deputy Chief Mike Cantryn is leading the department in the short term and has the assistance and support of RDCO Fire Services Manager Ross Kotscherofski.
With respect to the two members of the NWFR service that you refer to in your email, I must advise that as this is a human resources matter, out of respect for privacy of those people involved and in accordance with Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy legislation, the Regional District cannot provide any further details.
We wish to advise that the RDCO has given careful consideration and taken the necessary steps to ensure continuity and the long term success of our emergency response services as we move forward.
Regards,
Brian Reardon, CAO
Good Afternoon Directors;
It has come to our attention that the RDCO has Dismissed two high ranking officials within the NorthWestside Fire and Rescue. Unfortunately the CAO Brian Reardon of the RDCO has refused to disclose the grounds for the “Indefinite” Dismissal of these two Officers within the Fire Department. Residents that live within the area being represented by the RDCO and its directors are loosing faith in the Regional District. Many questions are arising; as far the accountability to the area’s that the RDCO represent, in particular the Northwest side represented by elected director Wayne Carson.
1) Do Elected Regional Directors represent the majority public opinion of the Area they are elected into?
2) Was Director Carson, consulted by RDCO staff prior tor the indefinite suspension of Fire Chief Jason Sattterthwaite?
3) Was Director Carson, consulted by RDCO staff prior tor the indefinite suspension of LT Robert Gajde?
4) If Director Carson was not consulted how does the Board and RDCO ensure continuity between the Elected officials and RDCO staff for when decisions are to be made by Staff involving the Directors area?
I wish express my faith in North Westside Fire Rescue Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Senior Officer Robert Gajda. I sincerely hope that the RDCO will continue to support and trust the Northwest side Fire Department and the POC fire-fighters. NWFR is an innovated group of professionals supported by dedicated Paid-on-call firefighters. As a resident of North Westside I am extremely disappointed in the RDCO’s decision on May 21, 2020 to “indefinitely” suspend these two dedicated professionals. Chief Satterthwaite is exceptionally experienced and skilled and we are grateful to have him in this position and as member of our community. As a concerned regional area tax paying citizen, I encourage the RDCO Staff to re-visit and revert the suspension involving Chief Sattterthwaite and Senior Officer Robert Gajde.
Sincerely,
Florian and Kim Schwarz
Hello,
I’m a new resident to the westshore community. I’m a 30 yr physician assistant and EMS educator.
Previous CUPE ALBERTA PRESIDENT.
My experience with the rdco to put it bluntly is the equivalent of dealing with a corrupt mafia corporate body from name calling, bribery, derogatory racial slurs to harrassment. Not to mention constant mismanagement, no clean drinking water and mispropreation of funds ^ documents. Extremely old equipment which jeopardizes residents. Threats by parking outside my home, inspectors flying down residential streets where children are present( all on security cameras in which the board is aware) retribution for sending emails holding them accountable. Denial of occupancy certification wherin lawyers, banks, builder gave me possession of my home. Pettiness. Harrassment by the rdco.
Most recently Cindy Fortin threatened with rcmp action… oops I forgot to mention my ex, father to my children is a rcmp sergeant as is my brother.
The abuse my family has experienced from the rdco & the board has been horrendous. All because I sent her emails demanding accountability and answers, for which she constantly ignores.
Most recently the firing of our family friends, associates, Jason Sattherwaite and Rob Gajda is absolutely disgusting and disgraceful. Not to mention possible violation of charter of rights. Putting residents in extreme danger.
My experience with the rdco is that of corruption, unknowlegable, no accountability, no transparency of a board who should be held accountable for their actions as well as who need to answer to their constituents.
I recommend a complete review and removal of the board of the rdco as its clearly not working so much so that a massive petition in the community to remove the Rdco.
I see their actions recently as retribution for those that seek accountability from the rdco.
Reinstate Jason and Rob immediately!
Cindy, may I remind you you are an elected official that your salary is paid for by the taxpayers & your accountability to answer and deal with emails & not to ignore nor threaten your constituents. Perhaps this is not the right position for you & you should step down immediately. I can guarantee you I can do a better job for free.
Mr. Blair perhaps a townhall meeting with the residents is needed since the rdco constantly puts residents in danger and dismissal of our legitimate concerns for which we pay taxes.
What you have on your hands is a potential walkout of all paid and volunteer firefighters which will endanger every single household on the westside affecting 5000 residents.
Any further retribution to me or my family will be perceived as a intentional threat.
Your urgent attention to this is needed
https://www.castanet.net/news/West-Kelowna/300943/Fire-Chief-suspended
Sincerely,
KArmstrong
Good Afternoon Mr. Reardon
cc: Area Director Wayne Carson
I am writing you to express my faith in NorthWestside Fire Rescue Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Senior Officer Roberta Gajda. I sincerely hope that the RDCO will continue to support and trust the Northwest side Fire Department and the POC fire-fighters. NWFR is an innovated group of professionals supported by dedicated Paid-on-call firefighters. As a resident of North Westside I am extremely disappointed in the RDCO’s decision on May 21, 2020 to “indefinitely” suspend these two dedicated professionals. Chief Satterthwaite is exceptionally experienced and skilled and we are grateful to have him in this position and as member of our community. As a concerned regional area tax paying citizen, I encourage the RDCO Staff to re-visit and revert the suspension involving Chief Sattterthwaite and Senior Officer Robert Gajde.
The above letter is copied, but I would also like to add that from what I have seen and heard in the community. Chief Jason goes above and beyond in his responsibilities, love and care for our fire dept. but also the community. I think we can expect you as a responsible group to rectify this and get over your “differences” immediately for the welfare and safety of our community.
Sincerely,
Tina Miller
Dear Mr. Reardon,
As part of the community of north Westside road, I am very proud and grateful to our wonderful fire department. Therefore I was shocked and horrified to hear that the fire chief, Jason Satterthwaite and senior officer, Roberta Gajda were indefinitely suspended. I do not understand the reason for this and would like either clarification as to why this decision was made or a reinstatement of Jason Satterthwaite and Roberta Gajda to their previous positions in our fire department.
I look forward to hearing from you,
Elisabeth Howelljensen
Good Afternoon Mr. Reardon
cc: Area Director Wayne Carson
I am writing you to express my faith in NorthWestside Fire Rescue Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Senior Officer Roberta Gajda. I sincerely hope that the RDCO will continue to support and trust the Northwest side Fire Department and the POC fire-fighters. NWFR is an innovated group of professionals supported by dedicated Paid-on-call firefighters. As a resident of North Westside I am extremely disappointed in the RDCO’s decision on May 21, 2020 to “indefinitely” suspend these two dedicated professionals. Chief Satterthwaite is exceptionally experienced and skilled and we are grateful to have him in this position and as member of our community. As a concerned regional area tax paying citizen, I encourage the RDCO Staff to re-visit and revert the suspension involving Chief Sattterthwaite and Senior Officer Robert Gajde.
Sean Miller
Good morning Brian
I was watching and waiting; would it just be a matter of time for the RDCO to step and cause problems for our North Westside Community after Castanet posted the article online April 16th about the offers for accommodations for our Firefighters during the Covid19.
The preposterous actions of the Regional district and the HR Department’s official decision May 22nd to take action to Indefinitely suspend our Fire Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Lieutenant Robert Gajda whom are trusted Community Members is jeopardizing our safety and our trust in RDCO.
You can state whatever your office pleases we are not hicks that have no understanding of the RDCO’s political and personal agendas which are Not in the North Westside’s best interest.
If the proper channels where not adhered to prior to the article being posted is this really enough cause for a suspension? who initiated the article? does anyone know possibly a community member, someone from La Casa wanting to promote goodwill; and Jason and Robert just simply responded not thinking this would cause any issues for your office?
This is absolutely unacceptable at such a pivotal time in history a safe place for our firefighters to reside would ensure that their families and our community members are safe. Is there no one in that office that cannot just be grateful for the offer; have a discussion with Jason and Robert on protocol for such a situation in the future and leave it at that.
These are unprecedented, frightening stressful times for many this is new to us all and everyone is doing their best to navigate the ever changing times with safety concerns and under the circumstances this could of been handled very differently.
The RDCO has made this a much bigger issue than it needed to be. This most recent action of the RDCO may be the determining factor for numerous North Westside residence who where on the fence about becoming a Municipality
I hope cool rational heads prevail at the meeting this evening
From A very disappointment North Westside Community Member Marie Thiemer
250.308.6856
Sir;
It concerns us to hear of the RDCO relieving two of our firefighters from duties. As per usual, the community that is affected by your actions are totally in the dark for the purpose of your actions. We are still in distrust of RDCO since you fired Wayne Carson years ago and this feels like a repeat action. Seriously, we have a right to know what and why drastic decisions are being made by your office while we are left questioning and never finding out what is going on. Yes we realize you have filled the positions BUT why?
The stance of the RDCO is expected to be standing for our community….AS IF IT WERE YOUR VERY OWN. We are disturbed and again feeling like RDCO is not working for us, but only for the interest of their own backs. We would like some explanations for your actions that you have taken on our behalf.
Dismissal of our Fire Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Robert Gaida in this crucial time in our world, shows such a lack of concern, and appears harsh and cruel.
Our hope is that you are being responsible to us the citizens of NWC first, and giving us the respect, as you serve us in your position. We would appreciate some answers.
Sincerely;
Kent G. Macfarlane
Theresa Macfarlane
Good Afternoon Mr. Reardon
cc: Area Director Wayne Carson
I am writing you to express my faith in NorthWestside Fire Rescue Chief Jason Satterthwaite and Senior Officer Roberta Gajda. I sincerely hope that the RDCO will continue to support and trust the Northwest side Fire Department and the POC fire-fighters. NWFR is an innovated group of professionals supported by dedicated Paid-on-call firefighters. As a resident of North Westside I am extremely disappointed in the RDCO’s decision on May 21, 2020 to “indefinitely” suspend these two dedicated professionals. Chief Satterthwaite is exceptionally experienced and skilled and we are grateful to have him in this position and as member of our community. As a concerned regional area tax paying citizen, I encourage the RDCO Staff to re-visit and revert the suspension involving Chief Sattterthwaite and Senior Officer Robert Gajde.
Sincerely,
Florian and Kim Schwarz
Wow.
Rdco digging themselves such a big big hole.
There is absolutely no reason to suspend indefinitely the fire chiefs.
I believe you forgot an important piece to seek legal counsel.
Sorry but you’re proving to be a bunch of idiots.
KArmstrong
