AS I SEE IT — Public safety a commission priority

Prioritizing public safety means investing in the people that rush to our aid in an emergency. At our Aug. 21 meeting, the County Commission demonstrated our commitment to our firefighters and the community they serve by unanimously approving a new three-year salary agreement. An 18.5% increase in base firefighter pay sets Osceola as the second-highest in the region. Our valuable Engineers, Lieutenants, Captains, and Battalion Chiefs also received substantial wage increases – ranging from 4-10.9%. With a significant adjustment to starting pay and increases in salaries across the board, Osceola County will remain in a competitive position to attract and retain talented professional firefighters. I recognize their dedication to our residents and visitors. I value the critical role they play in safeguarding our entire community. I am honored to have helped lead the efforts on an improved compensation plan for the men and women that protect our lives and property.

(For story on the contract, check out Thursday morning: https://www.aroundosceola.com/news/osceola-county-firefighters-approve-new-good-contract-pay-increases) 

The County’s investment in public safety goes above and beyond well-compensated firefighters, as we are also expanding our safety infrastructure. During my time as Commissioner I have had the privilege of “pushing back” a new engine at the Pine Grove Station, “uncoupling” a new station on Boggy Creek Road, and advocating for a new rescue unit at the Harmony station. We have new stations, upgraded stations, and more equipment coming across the County. I will continue to support allocating resources, funding, and policies that benefit local firefighters. We are all committed to maintaining a consistent, reliable, and effective response in an emergency.

As we move forward with public safety initiatives for our community, I must acknowledge the tremendous amount of collaboration that made our personnel agreement and advancement possible. The Osceola County Professional Firefighters team, Osceola County staff, Chief Larry Collier, and the Commission have created a partnership that will ensure Osceola County becomes even safer. Thank you all for your hard work and shared commitment to our community!

Ricky Booth is the Osceola County district 5 commissioner.