Article makes clear need for Fire District 5 oversight

Tony Boom’s recent article concerning Fire District 5’s website opacity when trying to learn about its operations demonstrates why local news sources in the form of printed newspapers are essential for there to be proper responsibility in government.

Boom beautifully details the almost futile process to obtain information about the finances and doings of the Fire District 5 Board of Directors and its management. That and the failure to complete the budget or audit for the past year let alone this year means a “house cleaning” of long-term board members and likely staff is warranted.

Newly elected board member Derek Volkhart and past board member Bill Robertson are and were board members with responsible voices for the interests of those served by Fire District 5. Boom’s article made it evident that for too long they have been lone voices.

Taxpayers served by Fire District 5 now know changes are needed for transparency and proper fiscal responsibility. It is for them to attend meetings to make the board and management do what is needed to properly serve residents of the district.

It apparently won’t happen without more oversight.

Brent Thompson / Ashland