Council, get a clue

Dear Editor,

As a result of the high water bill I am no longer a resident of McCook. But I do still have interest in McCook such as my job and family.

To think the City Council is going to cut the fire department by $5,000 in volunteer pay is astonishing to me. For one, these people leave their jobs, family and many other things too numerous to mention to protect your property.

I wonder if the house next to each of the councilmen was burning up, would they appreciate all the volunteers help of keeping it from getting to their house because six paid guys can't do the job of all the volunteers on staff (not that they wouldn't try)?

As an ex-volunteer for the City of McCook Fire Department, let me tell you, the money is not that good and they don't do it for the money.

I guarantee you that, but they do appreciate the gesture so please keep the gesture there.

As a victim, I got to see it from a different angle when our house burned in June of '03. And that's when I realized those guys are risking their lives for pretty much nothing, because in most cases, they don't receive a thanks, just a measly pay check for like $8 a call, even if they spend several hours on the job. How many other people would do that?

In closing, I would just like to show my appreciation to all the volunteers out there no matter what. Thank you, and keep up the good work.

Also, the council needs to pull their heads out and get a clue.

Don't forget to vote

Sincerely,

Kevin J. Manley,

Bartley