Jackson Free Press

UPDATE: At a special City Council meeting this afternoon, Fireman Brandon Falcon informed City Council that he had just spoken to Mayor Melton, who asked Falcon and the other four suspended firefighters to return to work on Monday. They will not be disciplined for speaking to the media. Watch for further updates.

Mayor Frank Melton said Tuesday (transcript here) that he supports the suspension of five Jackson firefighters for expressing safety concerns to the Jackson Free Press. In fact, the mayor may fire them himself. "I'm probably going to terminate them," he told the Jackson Free Press in a phone interview.

Commanders suspended Capts. Sidney Johnson, Reuben Ray and Patrick Armon, along with Lt. Vernon Gee and Local 87 Union President Brandon Falcon Monday.

Falcon vowed to fight the suspensions.

"Unfortunately it'll cost the city money with me because I'm not using city avenues. I'm going straight to circuit court if they actually do this," Falcon said Tuesday. "As the elected union president, I can go to the press for any serious concerns, especially public safety. These other guys are covered under the First Amendment. In any case, the International Association of Firefighters vigorously defends First Amendment rights."

Interim Fire Chief Todd Chandler, a former union president, did not return calls.

In his interview, Melton said he was fine with firefighters talking to the press, so long as what they said was honest. However, he didn't dispute the firefighters' claims that the Fire Department is understaffed, thus potentially hurting public safety. He agreed with that part, instead saying they were lying about having tried to talk to him.

"The problem that I have here is that someone was very dishonest ... when they said that they had tried to set up meetings with me," Melton told the JFP. "That is absolutely not true. … I've never gotten a single call from (Falcon). And the problem that I have is that I want them to talk to you, and I want them to feel free to talk to you, but they haven't said anything to the chief, they haven't said anything to me or anybody on my staff. And that's just wrong."

Falcon, though, said it's Melton who is misleading. "I tried repeatedly to contact the mayor by e-mail," Falcon said, "by calling his office and by requests through the chain of command until Feb. 26, at which time Chaundra Hardaway and Travis Frazier came by my fire station in a city vehicle and advised me that the mayor would not meet with me as president of local 87 under any circumstance. They told me that this was a message directly from the mayor."

Robert Shaffer, president of the Mississippi AFL-CIO, told the JFP that Hardaway and Frazier, two firefighters, met him around the same time and conveyed that same message, which he passed on to Falcon. Hardaway and Frazier could not be reached for comment.

Melton also said the firefighters' comments were politically motivated. "They want to decide who's going to be fire chief. ... I'm not going to put up with that," Melton said. "It's politics, pure politics. My thinking—and I could be wrong—but my very strong thinking is that the taxpayers pay them to fight fires, not to start them."

Prior to the suspensions, Chandler and JFD Commander Tony Davis sent a letter to firefighters who had aired grievances concerning safety to the Jackson Free Press, starting months ago, and later in other media. The letter demanded that firefighters provide exhaustive documentation substantiating their claims within 72 hours or face disciplinary measures.

The Aug. 9 letter to Sidney Johnson lists two pages of demands to substantiate the following statement in a July 19 JFP article: "Chandler's three-person rule also puts the city's ISO rating at risk, raising the possibility of higher homeowners insurance within city limits, according to JFD Rescue 23 Capt. Sidney Johnson." The demands included: "Provide all written documentation showing that the current Fire Administration ISO evaluation is the sole determining factor for higher homeowners insurance."

Yet, Johnson did not make that claim.

Disgruntled firemen do say staffing cuts limit the number of firemen on a ladder or pumper truck to three—one person short of the four-person team recommended by the National Fire Protection Association.

Firefighters took issue with the staff cut because federal guidelines restrict firefighters from entering a burning building to check for rescues unless there are at least two firefighters waiting outside, ready to enter the building and rescue the rescuers if things get choppy. Investigating the flames without prior confirmation of endangered occupants could endanger local firefighters' workman's comp.

David Hudson Jr., an attorney with the First Amendment Center in Arlington, Va., said that public employees can fight suspension or termination if their concerns are about safety: "There is a strong First Amendment interest in having public employees speak out on matters of public safety."

Falcon compared the suspensions to union-breaking tactics. "They're trying to fire us and bust the union," Falcon said.

"I didn't see this coming," Johnson said. "Most of us are saying what the fire chief and assistant fire chief have been saying for 10 years—except they get rewarded, we get punished."

Resentment has been brewing between the command staff and union members for months. Melton picked Chandler to preside over the fire department, but a majority of council members stand against Chandler's affirmation. Melton has repeatedly withdrawn Chandler's name from a council vote until he says the council is ready to approve him—a move Ward 6 Councilman Marshand Crisler says undermines the council's power.

Firefighters submitted a petition with 93 signatures from members—roughly one-third of the department—giving Chandler a vote of no confidence. They accuse Chandler of busting rapid intervention teams, including rope and confined space rescue teams and a hazardous materials team.

Johnson said the special teams were forced to disband when Chandler began shuffling firemen around. "They couldn't stay together when they got re-assigned," he said. "We've got one member of the haz-mat team at my station, but he's no use for that kind of work without his other team members."

Firemen also complain that Chandler agrees too easily with decisions rolling down from the mayor's administration that negatively impact the fire department.

"Instead of fighting for us, Chandler just rolls over and takes it," Falcon said. "We need a chief who'll stand up for us."

Click here for an earlier JFP thread on this topic. At this link, you can also find links to all of the JFP articles on the Fire Department to date.

Read transcript of interview with Frank Melton here

NOTE: All quotes contained in this article are Copyright 2006 Jackson Free Press. Any use without express attribution to the Jackson Free Press will be considered a copyright violation.

Previous Comments

ID

122859

Comment

Figures. I hope the people of Jackson love how far they've trashed a great city. Silly Mayor, Stupid Soap Opera and Silly Politics.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2006-08-15T22:15:10-06:00

ID

122860

Comment

This is the height of dictatorial arrogance and seriously brings into question Melton's connection to reality. Unfortunately our 'do nothing' city council will do exactly that...

Author

tomac

Date

2006-08-15T22:20:38-06:00

ID

122861

Comment

Oh, Man! You know it is just time something was done. I am really sick and tired of our 'unconventional' mayor acting in his 'unorthodox' manner. I am sick and tired of being sick and tired of him and his 'unruly' behavior. This City is a victim of a giant leap backwards perpertrated by this 'unwise' administration. Having our police and our fire departments 'un-derstaffed' is an 'unwelcome' fact.

Author

ChrisCavanaugh

Date

2006-08-15T22:43:30-06:00

ID

122862

Comment

Firefighters criticize city policies: Melton believes he would be right to personally fire them. Police officers beat up a handcuffed suspect: Melton personally intervenes to prevent them from being fired, on the theory that the (unindicted, African-American) suspect is a "damn thug" unworthy of such a response. Can we impeach this guy yet? And where the hell are Kenneth Stokes and the Jackson Advocate, anyway? Racial profiling is okay, beating suspects is okay, and the First Amendment doesn't exist? Lord, have mercy. And, uh, yeah, the firefighters ARE (incidentally) protected by the First Amendment. Not to mention potentially protected by federal whistleblower statutes. Cheers, TH

Author

Tom Head

Date

2006-08-15T23:29:24-06:00

ID

122863

Comment

I hope this situation with the FF will be the "straw that breaks" FM's back. He is known to be a Union buster by some union members. The FF endorsed him over HJ even tho Johnson was known to be union friendly. To bad the FF bought into FM's lies. My grandma use to say "lay down with dogs wake up with fleas".

Author

jada

Date

2006-08-15T23:57:32-06:00

ID

122864

Comment

Melton's arrogance is sickening. Hs acts like the only thing that he can do threaten and fire people. He has no tact or diplomacy. He says that the firefighters never tried to talk to him, and they say different. Why not just sit down now and talk? I guess that he feels that nobody's opinion counts but his. This is looking more and more like another case where Melton's stupidity could cost the city lots and lots of money. These men and women have families and lives just like everyone else. Their concerns were what anyone would be concerned with. Does King Idiot really believe that if he fires these guys it will be over? I am not looking to spend more money, but it looks like we (the taxpayers) are going to have to foot another bill for the mayor's stupidity.

Author

lance

Date

2006-08-16T00:14:24-06:00

ID

122865

Comment

First off - Frankie needs to know that the men/women of JFD are FIREFIGHTERS and not firemen. I hope he tries to fire these guys - they can sue the city and WIN - with the other law suits against the city by the female firefightes this lawsuit could be the one that breaks the city. FM needs to stop and listen - read what he is saying and follow procedure. With FM being a loose cannon the city needs to be scared. The fire dept. has one big loose cannon in Davis - he is unstable and can't tell the truth from all of his lies. Todd - he just does what Tony tells him to - does this guy have an original thought or even a thought.

Author

wisher

Date

2006-08-16T09:54:31-06:00

ID

122866

Comment

Of all the people in this city to talk about someone lying, FM is the last person to be enraged. He has proven to be the biggest liar around. Everything that comes out of his mouth is a lie. If we are going to terminate employees because of a lie, he should have been out of office a long time ago. Maybe that's an idea, have a recall for lying. He'll be back in Texas by Saturday!!!!

Author

maad

Date

2006-08-16T14:49:39-06:00

ID

122867

Comment

Also, he's accusing the firefighters of lying, that has not been proven. He is a proven liar.

Author

maad

Date

2006-08-16T14:52:28-06:00

ID

122868

Comment

These men are our modern-day saviors. They risk their lives every day, sometimes in 100 degree temperatures, to save us, our homes, pets, and possessions--and for what? It can't be for the pennies they're paid. So it has to be because of their love for the job. This sacrifice alone should be enough for Frank Melton to at least sit down with these men to discuss their concerns. We all desirs to have safe working conditions. Why should it be any less for Jackson's finest to desire the same? Just think about it Frank Melton. These are the very same men who would selflessly come to rescue you and your home --no questions asked, if you were to suffer a fire emergency. It is what they do. So HELP them! Don't fight them.

Author

blu_n_a_redstate

Date

2006-08-16T15:33:30-06:00

ID

122869

Comment

*UPDATE* I just listened to FM 90.7 and they had Asst. Chief Tony Davis on the show! MY GAWD, I now understand why everyone I talk to says he is a nut, unstable, etc. I have to yet spoken to ANYONE who knows him, or about him that had anything good to say about the man! He has spent the last 15 minutes threatening the city council on the radio and spilling his version of the 'great' Frank Melton and Chief Chandler. I personally just witnessed (heard) what in my opinion, is the voice of pure hatred! He obviously is a very angry, sick individual!

Author

Katie D

Date

2006-08-16T20:16:46-06:00

ID

122870

Comment

Ben, you're failing us here.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2006-08-16T21:10:27-06:00

ID

122871

Comment

It would be interesting to compare what Davis said about the Fire Department administration to the City Council years ago (when he was head of the union) with what he says today as a member of the Fire Department administration. It's all on tape somewhere.

Author

Mr PR Professional

Date

2006-08-16T22:16:00-06:00

ID

122872

Comment

Katie, I heard the last 20 min. of the program. You aare right this guy is a nut. He did the same thing when he was union president on the air and in news and tv when he could get someone to listen. he has filed numerous suits against the city during the last administration. he endorsed Melton and worked hard during his campaign. Well is this why he got to be asst. chief? I thought he had left the city under an agreement of one of his suits which Danks was his attorney. I wonder did FM know about the terms also the city council. The personal attacks on Crisler and the rest of the council were nasty. if i were Crisler I would call him out in public about himself. Telling Tillman he needs to retire was not a good way to get the council on board with all the problems they are having in the JFD. Would some one please put a sock in his mouth?

Author

jada

Date

2006-08-17T00:11:12-06:00

ID

122873

Comment

How can one get a copy of those tapes?? i know MrPR is correct,however it would be nice to publish them maybe he would shut his mouth and remember to support JFD and former union members.

Author

jada

Date

2006-08-17T00:15:18-06:00

ID

122874

Comment

As was reported (don't recall which media source) one of the councilmen apparently met with the FireFighters which were suspended, so apparently the council has not completely forgotten these guys. Unlike some, I'm willing to give the council the benefit of the doubt for a few more days. I understand that they cannot simply change the order of things, and I'm putting my belief in them that they will follow thru and ensure that these firefighters don't become casualties! ****There are a few of us who are going to be putting out flyers in some of our larger shopping areas over the next few days in support of the Jackson Fire Firefighter -5 that have kept the public informed to their own peril. I ask that all the readers and bloggers who support these 5 firefighters to tell your local gas stations, grocery stores, etc. to put up on their marquee their support. It is the least that we can do as citizens who believe in and support these 5 firefighters. Collectively, we can send a message of support to the 5 as well as show our city government that we don't believe in the actions being taken! I ask that EVERYONE who supports these 5 firefighters put up on their marquee's: We Support JFD 5 My group and I will be using our home printers to make a sign for our back window which will read: We SUPPORT Jacksons 5-Firefighters! All of the media polls being taken currently show support of an overwhelming 77-80% collectively IN SUPPORT of the 5 firefighters - that tells me that we don't believe what is being doing to them is right - so why don't we let everyone know? I hope that this situation will soon be cleared up and these firefighters are back at work! Melton needs to get his head out of his a$$, especially if he is listening to Chief Davis as was suggested previously. It is obvious that the man is completely losing it and if this is the type of people who are running the fire department, I even understand more why these firefighters had to use the media to have their concerns heard. Davis made it clear by his interrupting, running-over the host, and his violent outbursts on the radio show that NO ONE would be able to take concerns of theirs to him!

Author

Katie D

Date

2006-08-17T04:28:35-06:00

ID

122875

Comment

Way to go, Folks! If Jackson is to navigate these very troubled waters it will require teamwork and effort! Now, a couple of questions generated by that other forum at the C-L. Did Tony Davis receive the monitary settlement from the City? It was approved by the Council and by Davis during the later days of the Johnson Administration and part of the published (I think) terms were that he NOT return to work for the City of Jackson. Once more, public information is lacking. Secondly, the City Council needs to call the acting Chief up for confirmation with or without Melton's being involved. They could stop all this agony right now by holding a Special Council Meeting and either voting Chandler up or down. If Katie's approval (disapproval) rating by the public is correct, there is no way a rational Councilperson could confirm Chandler. If Tony Davis did receive or agree to his settlement with the city, then the Council needs to review its terms immediately and see if his employment by the City of Jackson is even legal. If not, then we all know who 'needs to go to the house' as Melton said.

Author

ChrisCavanaugh

Date

2006-08-17T05:09:07-06:00

ID

122876

Comment

Tony Davis called the Charles Evers Radio Talk Show last night. He was very angry and reported that someone called his 13yr old daughter and called her a "whore" and several others nasty names. He then went on to threaten "anyone who messes with Frank Melton, Sherline or Bluntson will have to answer to me." I listened with total disbelief that the Assistant "Accting Chief" - (If the Chief is not confirmed, then neither is his assistant), would use such angry threatening language. This is getting to be entirely too much! Charles Evers was his usual self: Trying to suck up to FM vicariously through Davis. These people are dangerous and it really sends the wrong message to that 65% of the citizens here who are easily misled and will swallow a dose of rhetoric at the drop of a hat. It is criminal to take advantage of people like that. The CL is good for this type of maneuver. I watched them aide in the killing of the Johnson Administration. Charles knows better but, he continues to make his point of " I Love GOD and MONEY." He wants to build a race track here and the rest is HISTORY! By the way, did anyone hear Bill Cooley at the City Council Meeting last evening? He was invited by McLemore. Bill came up with a brilliant idea: "Let's develope a Jackson Chamber of Commerce." This is priceless. Stokes tried to come up with some resistance, initially; however, Cooley had his facts together and was able to present a plausable argument.

Author

justjess

Date

2006-08-17T09:58:05-06:00

ID

122877

Comment

Absolutely on the Jackson Chamber of Commerce. We would join. It's needed. I'll work on these tapes.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-17T10:34:49-06:00

ID

122878

Comment

Hey, ya'll, the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce is either in the process of or has already created a Jackson Chamber with its own Board within their Chamber.

Author

ChrisCavanaugh

Date

2006-08-17T10:42:56-06:00

ID

122879

Comment

That doesn't quite feel the same to me.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-17T10:45:27-06:00

ID

122880

Comment

The Mayor, commenting on the suspension of the five JFP firefighters, said: "...my very strong opinion is that the taxpayers pay them to fight fires, not start them..." My response: Mr. Mayor, we taxpayers pay you to BE the Mayor, not to PLAY one on TV.!

Author

Kacy

Date

2006-08-17T10:52:43-06:00

ID

122881

Comment

Yeah, I caught that, too, Kacy. Truly remarkable that Melton, of all people, would complain about others "starting fires" ... or "not being honest," for that matter.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-17T10:54:39-06:00

ID

122882

Comment

Melton is now saying in the Ledger that Falcon's statements that he was told not to try to talk to the mayor have "some merit": Local union president Brandon Falcon, a captain in the Fire Department, has said he received a visit from two firefighters who told him that Melton would not meet with the union leader. On Wednesday, Melton said the story has "some merit", but that two were not sent on his orders. Merit, indeed, considering that the head of the AFL-CIO is backing him up. What. a. mess. When is City Council going to grow some balls and so something about the idiocy of an "interim fire chief." Council? Hello?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-17T11:19:40-06:00

ID

122883

Comment

The previous mayor got skewered for taking over a year to find a qualified PD Chief and the current mayor keeps rehashing the same apparently unqualified guy for the FD for 13 months. Different folks get different strokes it seems.

Author

JLYerg

Date

2006-08-17T11:49:24-06:00

ID

122884

Comment

No one ever argued that Jackson isn't filled with idiotic double standards. But they're starting to bite us in the butt. And you're talking about double standards that affect fire safety, both of citizens and our firefighters, you're in serious territory. It's time the Council stop being afraid to speak out against idiocy and take actions to take care of the citizens and our city workers. It's remarkable to watch these five men be demonized by these massive egos (ostensibly) running the city. It's deplorable. Digusting. Unconscionable. Hang around long enough, and I'll tell you what I really think. Feel free, anyone, to post links to PDFs of your flyers. The Jackson Free Press is tired of watching hard-working Jacksonians get hurt by this mayor and his crowd of egos.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-17T11:55:13-06:00

ID

122885

Comment

Don't miss Darren's cartoon on the JFD 5 this week.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-17T12:01:31-06:00

ID

122886

Comment

*UPDATE* I just received notice that it was reported at noon that Chief Tony Davis has been terminated from his position of Asst. Fire Chief! (I cannot provide 100% positive proof, but the news station is reporting this!) This situation with the Fire Dept.- 5 (suspended firefighters) is one of the largest travesty's this city has encountered since Clown Melton took office! Tony Davis made a complete a$$ of himself on the Charles Evers show last night, while contstantly singing the praises of the temp. Fire Cheif, Todd Chandler and Frank Melton. He went so far as to curse at the city council AND threaten them! If you did not hear this radio show last night, I assure you that it is worth the effort and what ever cost involved to receive a transcript of it. I can fully understand WHY the firemen couldn't speak to the command staff now - no one would have been listening if Tony Davis is any indication of their behavior/actions. AND these are the people that Melton associates with and places his confidence in! Every day there is a new quote by Melton, regarding this 'lie' that Falcon was supposed to have said regarding him being told the mayor would not meet with him, today, Melton says there is 'some merit' to the statement. Damn Frank - can you not keep YOUR OWN LIES straight? I grew up hearing that 'birds of a feather flock together' and following the behavior of Tony Davis, it makes you further question Melton and his choice of Chandler to lead this Fire Dept. I mean come on, a public servant, who is in a position of leadership within the community is on a nationally syndicated radio show threatening the City Council! SUCK IT UP FRANK - You Lose! Stop this ridiculous crap and put the Fire Dept. - 5 back on duty where they belong. THEY have at least returned some respectability to this community and shown that we actually have public servants who CARE! Don't continue to waste the tax payers money by paying them to be at home when THEY want to be at work EARNING their paycheck doing the job they obviously love!

Author

Katie D

Date

2006-08-17T15:20:30-06:00

ID

122887

Comment

Chris - I keep hearing that Tony Davis was not paid by the city in terms of the settlement - however someone on another thread said he was. Questions are being asked of Council members about this and if the terms called for Davis to never be employed by the City again. Ben Allen - can you answer this for us?

Author

JenniferGriffin

Date

2006-08-17T17:14:11-06:00

ID

122888

Comment

The Clarion-Ledger's ability to mislead is simply limitless. Today: The media reports about problems in the Fire Department came as Chandler was preparing to go before the City Council for confirmation. Melton pulled Chandler's nomination when it became apparent he did not have the votes to have the chief confirmed. The suspensions have caught the attention of the American Civil Liberties Union. Nsombi Lambright, executive director of the Mississippi ACLU, said the organization is watching but has not concluded whether the firefighters' civil liberties have been violated. Adam Lynch has been reporting about these problems for almost a year now. Just because the Ledge decided to come on board last month doesn't mean that all this just happened. Beyond not giving credit where it's due, this shortchanges the truth of how long this mess has been happening. Of course, to report that would show how far behind this story The Clarion-Ledger has been.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-18T10:21:30-06:00

ID

122889

Comment

And this is today's editorial: That's especially true since the reason the firefighters were suspended is for telling the media that they were underequipped and understaffed, making it difficult to perform their jobs - complaints that, as a matter of public safety, should have been heard and addressed promptly. Promptly? Ahem. And the final statement: Rather than cracking down on firefighters, the city should be investigating and acting on the issues. It's apparent, the department has some "issues." ISSUES?!? Thanks for noticing, Ledge.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-18T10:30:50-06:00

ID

122890

Comment

Donna, that C-L article made me see again what a mess Mr. Melton makes. What a morass. He comes in saying the guys are right but that he's firing them for talking out of turn??? Has he any idea how wrong & illegal that is? He seems to be running a club rather than a city -- thinking he can make up rules as he goes along. Like in 4th grade.

Author

Izzy

Date

2006-08-18T10:35:49-06:00

ID

122891

Comment

I know, Laurel. These are FIREFIGHTERS. They run into burning buildings. They get to emergencies first. They have lives, and families, and save money to send their children to college. Does he really think anyone CARES that he says they didn't try to talk to him. You know they did. How often does he just fall off the planet and return calls for two weeks, and then he calls 10 times in an hour? (Talking from personal experience here.) People's lives are in danger here—the firefighters' and the citizens'. It's timet hat the Melton games stop. We need a confirmation vote on Chandler, and we need it now.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-18T11:00:43-06:00

ID

122892

Comment

yeah, I agree. let's put it to a vote & move on!

Author

Izzy

Date

2006-08-18T11:20:59-06:00

ID

122893

Comment

I hear you Katie D. Your message is on point! I heard on 16 this am that Davis was going to resign today. massa melton said he was firing him today along with the 5 firefighters who "spoke out of turn." fm is uneducated and without common sense. I have met a lot of people during my life who had absolutely no formal education but, they were people with good hearts. This is the problem with fm. His heart is not right and his brain is not equipped to do any type of critical thinking. This is a requirement to hold the position as leader of this City. The Evers Radio Show was pretty bad and he (Charles Evers) egged Davis on with all of his stupid, violent nonesense. At the time, I guess Evers thought that Davis had the "silver spoon" of frank melton placed in his mouth. Now what since Davis has apparently GONE BY BY?

Author

justjess

Date

2006-08-18T12:44:44-06:00

ID

122894

Comment

Justjess.....I can usually depend on you to pick up where I leave off, I appreciate that! I'm scared for all the firefighters with the manner in which Tony Davis acted yesterday via the media! This man has issues! I fail to understand how Melton (who we have to assume is reasonable intelligent) could continue to surround himself by people such as this?! Frank said that he will not stand for anyone talking 'bad about the city of Jackson' anymore! Hell, it hasn't stopped........it's getting worse! We have friends in Memphis who called.......the firefighters situation has hit THEIR news! My gawd, is he so a$$backwards that he doesn't realize that surrounding yourself with moron's and controversial people, when you already are, faciliates Jackson becoming the 'butt of all jokes'? IF HE REALLY does'nt want people to talk badly about Jackson, then do something that shows REAL intelligence. GET RID OF THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE NO REASON TO BE THERE.....OR who simply don't have what it takes for the positions they have been hired for. (Ex. Chandler (JFD) I have never heard anything personal against him, only that he is NOT a leader, does not have the experience, education, support of the men/women of the Fire Dept. - get rid of him) Anderson (JPD) I don't doubt that she has an extensive law enforcement background, and if sshe worked for anyone else, maybe she would do a better job, but reality is....if you're considering bringing in the prior police chief as a consultant.....then get rid of Anderson and put the consultant in as the Police Chief!) I believe one of the biggest problems Frank has is that he owes to many favors, or made to many promises without having the insight to further research those to whom promises were made. Regarding the Fire Dept., I am hearing from many people in public, that they believe Melton owed a favor to someone, and that favor was called in by putting Chandler on the top - ready or not! Who knows... But the reality IS.......Chandler is not getting the job done! Anderson is not getting the job done! So put people in place THAT CAN! If you really don't want to leave office at the end of your term being known as the biggest failure Jackson ever had.....suck it up and start putting people with the experience and drive to make Jackson a better, safer place! One that IS NOT being talked about nationwide!

Author

Katie D

Date

2006-08-18T13:04:42-06:00

ID

122895

Comment

One question: How many times has Melton talked bad about the city over the years? This whole censorship of dissent thing is very disturbing. He's acting like a dictator. I agree: His choices for staff and advisers, for the most part, amaze and befuddle me.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-18T13:10:09-06:00

ID

122896

Comment

While watchig WAPT16 News last night, the reporter said that one of the stipulations in Tony Davis' settlement with the city of Jackson several years ago was that he could never work for the city again. But Davis was re-hired by Frank Melton to again work with JFD. Does this violate his settlement with the city of Jackson, and if he received a monetary award in this settlement, does this mean he has to return the award for violating the settlement agreement? Any answers out there?

Author

blu_n_a_redstate

Date

2006-08-18T14:30:37-06:00

ID

122897

Comment

No, but we're looking.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-18T14:43:09-06:00

ID

122898

Comment

He reinstated them.

Author

Ex

Date

2006-08-18T15:35:11-06:00

ID

122899

Comment

Yep, seems the city attorney's office told him the city was way out of line and couldn't win this one. More soon.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-18T15:40:05-06:00

ID

122900

Comment

I just found out that Tony Davis was paid during the Johnson Administration and an one of the terms of the agreement was that Davis was never to work for the Dept. again. Frank came in and as a piss-off to Johnson, hired him back. Davis was also a supporter of Melton and his rehire was his reward. WHAT A MESS!

Author

justjess

Date

2006-08-18T15:55:54-06:00

ID

122901

Comment

That is good news that he reinstated them! Just happens that last night History Channel had the story of "Stairway B" where several firefighters and a woman who worked in the tower were trapped after the collapse of the North Tower during 911. Miraculously, they survived. One even went right back on the job after being rescued! When you heard those firefighters, and others, speak about that day, it made you proud that these are the types of people that do the thank-less work of keeping our homes and families safe when things go wrong. Then you read what a mess Melton and gang have made in our department and you can only roll your eyes. Glad our postings and the media coverage have turned a wrong into a right.

Author

pikersam

Date

2006-08-18T16:16:11-06:00

ID

122902

Comment

By the way, where was the City Council when Tony Davis was rehired by Melton? Margaret, Kenny, Ben, Crisler and McLemore were all there when the situation went down with Davis. They knew that Davis was never to be rehired. The City pays out too mush money to too many incompetent people. Did FM put a gag order on them just as he tried to gag the firefighters? Certain things just shouldn't happen. It's as simple as that.

Author

justjess

Date

2006-08-18T16:17:10-06:00

ID

122903

Comment

Melton's saying they won't be disciplined. Does that mean he's opting not to discipline them, or that he can't discipline them becuase they've done nothing wrong? What of the next firefighters who speak out won't suffer the same absue of mayoral power?

Author

Brent Cox

Date

2006-08-18T18:56:06-06:00

ID

122904

Comment

*Will they suffer the same abuse of mayoral power?

Author

Brent Cox

Date

2006-08-18T18:56:45-06:00

ID

122905

Comment

... and look what they've been put through for speaking out about public safety. It's unconscionable. We need a confirmation on Chandler asap. The citizens cannot stand aside and allow this Fire Department to be run in the ground due to silly politics and personal vendettas. I was saying to (my) Todd earlier that it feels like Frank Melton needs constant trailer-park drama around him. And I say that as something who experienced enough trailer-park drama growing up to last me a lifetime. It's certainly no friggin' way to run a city. Except in the ground, maybe. Council: Call for confirmation NOW.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-18T19:00:56-06:00

ID

122906

Comment

My question is this..who can get Tony Davis out of the Fire Department? On the 6:00 p.m. news on WAPT it was stated that Davis said, he was not resigning. We don't need a hothead like this trying to lead people. I feel the firefighters are in a stressful enough low- paying job as it is and had every right to speak out for their safety. I feel these are brave men and women who put their lives on the line everytime they go out on a call. They have to love the job and people because the pay will not draw you. I know for myself if I touch something too warm I'm trying to get out of the way as quick as I can so, I am in total support of the firefighters. Not to mention when they leave home their families may not see them alive again. We should not be so quick to forget 911 where so many firefighters lost their lives trying to save others. What can the citizens of Jackson do to get this situation resolved NOW? It can be called politics, favors or whatever but, the Fire Department is not a place to play around with. When a call is made to them, their main focus should be to get to the scene and do what can be done to save lives and property and not have to deal with junk like I've been seeing on TV and reading in paper. While Jackson does not have an emergency situation YET this needs to be resolved. We need people in leadership at the Fire Department that know what they are doing and not use their position of power as a weapon.

Author

Observing

Date

2006-08-18T19:17:33-06:00

ID

122907

Comment

Well, if there is an agreement that he would not be hired by the city again, then the city attorney's office and the City Council need to oust him. I don't get why someone like this is there in the first place. And Chandler seems to have no handle whatsoever on how the department is being run. He's not confimed. They can't get enough votes to do it. So why is he still there, presiding over this mess that is endangering people's lives and firefighters' morale? Council, I think y'all are up to bat. Fix this, and we're not playin'.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-18T19:34:16-06:00

ID

122908

Comment

Ladd......I totally agree! Psst.....a little birdie told me that the city council has advised Melton to either put up or shut up regarding Chandler! (I have been told that by someone I feel is a good source of information but it cannot be substantiated) :o) [covering my a$$ so Ladd doesn't have to do it for me] ha ha - I don't want to get 'blocked out'! I'm personally all for one of the Firefighter - 5 to be the New Fire Chief! Pick the one with the most experience, best qualified and let one of them take the position! They have proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are seriously interested in the fire dept., and they must have the support of the men, even one who was not involved in the suspension came on television simply to offer his support to them. I don't think anyone would disagree that these 5 out of over 300 have proven themselves to 'go the long haul'......they came out in public, risked their jobs, ridicule, and even so far as to be called liars (at first) by the mayor. Hell, I think all 5 of them need a commendation for coming out and taking the risks that they did! From my understanding, (another birdie) that at the open portion of the city council this afternoon, that these 5 men received a standing ovation from not only the citizens there to 'watch' but ALSO FROM THE CITY COUNCIL! WOW - talk about a feather in their hats! I'm proud of these men for coming out, telling the truth and sticking to their guns.......THESE are the type of people we need in leadership of the departments. I will also say, although I am not a Melton fan.......he definantly won a few brownie points with me tonight when asked about the reinstatement of the firefighter - 5 that he 'apologized to them for some misunderstandings, and that apparently they HAD been trying to contact him'. This in no way makes me a Melton fan, but especially for Melton this said something when he apologized publicly essentially for calling them liars and admitting that they did as they originally stated, 'try and contact the mayor'. YEAH Jackson Firefighter - 5........YOU ROCK & The Citizens Appreciate your willingness to take the risk to come forward as you did! CONGRATUALTIONS!

Author

Katie D

Date

2006-08-18T19:57:53-06:00

ID

122909

Comment

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you that supported us during this past week, especially the Jackson Free Press. The tremendous outpouring that the public displayed will never be forgotten. We (the ff's of Jackson FD) offer our service to you with great passion and diligence each and every day. I would like to also thank the mayor Frank Melton for listening to us and pledging to work out the issues that we discussed during our meeting. The mayor was straightforth and honest about everything that we talked about. We all agreed to work together and move this fire department and city forward. And last but not least, the city council has been a very supportive force in working through this. I will always be grateful to them each and everyone for their efforts.

Author

SidneyRJohnson

Date

2006-08-18T22:38:29-06:00

ID

122910

Comment

It's been said that Tony Davis has retired. is this true?? last night he said he wasn't going anywhere so I am confused . I hope he reimburses the money he was paid while working against the terms of the settlement. If he violated the terms by coming back to work does not this make him and Frank liable? Someone help me on this.

Author

jada

Date

2006-08-18T23:07:18-06:00

ID

122911

Comment

Sidney, we want to thank you all the firefighters who work hard everyday to help keep us safe.

Author

pikersam

Date

2006-08-19T08:57:29-06:00

ID

122912

Comment

More people need to stand up against him. Too many are willing to follow blindly.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2006-08-19T10:20:40-06:00

ID

122913

Comment

My question regarding Davis has not been addressed...has he resigned or not? If not, what can we as citizens of Jackson do/go/talkto/protest or whatever needs to be done to get him out? I am ready for this City to move forward! We need a REAL FIRE CHIEF. I feel there are ones within JFD who qualify and this should be the first place to seek one. If an outside chief is brought in it is simply saying, JFD is not doing anything by way of internal training and getting others prepared for the job. I would appreciate some feedback and feel entitled as a tax paying citizen to have some answers especially, with talk of a tax increase. What for? If we can't get order, cooperation, respect and do what benefits the citizens of Jackson within the City Council and the Mayor why give more money? I also have another question...why is there now not a PR person for JFD. I understand that Tyrone Lewis is suppose to be one but, what does he know about JFD???? The public needs to be informed by people that work directly with the Department. Lewis can only report or talk about what is given to him from JFD and this is SECOND HAND. He can't possibly be in 2 or 3 places at the same time!!

Author

Observing

Date

2006-08-19T10:20:41-06:00

ID

122914

Comment

Observing, I'm not part of the fire dept., however, I do seem to be finding some very good sources~! I can't advise as to particulars about the fire dept., but as a citizen, just like you - I can advise that regarding citizen input into getting rid of Tony Davis (whom I understand is still refusing to resign as of this date) is to start calling and/or emailing the city council members. All of the city council email addresses can be found here: http://www.city.jackson.ms.us/CityHall/council.htm I am emailing them and telling them to FORCE THE ISSUE ABOUT THE FIRE CHIEF - Put Chandler up for confirmation if Melton still wants to do so, and if he doesn't get the votes of confirmation, get him out! Regarding Davis - email them and tell them we want him gone! He's a loose cannon with some very serious issues in my opinion, and this city does NOT need this type of person in a representative capacity of any department! About finding a new fire chief, I sincerely concur with your sentiments. With more than 300 firefighters on JFD, we should have many who are qualified and already are familiar with the inner workings of the dept., so we should promote from within. I earlier made a statement in this blog that the mayor might want to consider looking at all or some of the Firefighter 5 who were just reinstated as candidates. THEY have proven themselves within the public eye of looking out for not only the other firefighters safety along with their own, but also apparently do not mind letting the public know they don't have the necessary equipment and/or manpower to provide the service that we are entitled to have/receive. I can't say with any confirmation, but after speaking with a firefighter the other day I was told that (unconfirmed) prior to Chandler being placed in the interim position that under R. McNulty (prior Fire Chief) there was a specified Fire Dept. Liason for the public. Apparently (still unconfirmed) this was another of those things that Chandler didn't feel was important enough to 'keep around' and it was dismantled. I also have a question that I would like to receive an answer too. Prior to Chandler coming into the interim position, I have been told that we had (the city) our own Fire Dept. Training Center for continued on-the-job training and for training of new firefighters. It is my understanding that this was again, another item that Chandler essentially destroyed and is no longer active. So (my question) all these new firefighters that the mayor has pledged to hire to fill the many openings, WHO is going to train them? If there is a firefighter out there, or even Mr. Johnson who I saw posted above, can you please enlighten us on what we as a city are to do with these new people who are going to be hired?

Author

Katie D

Date

2006-08-19T10:54:13-06:00

ID

122915

Comment

As a 13 year firefighter I would like to touch a little on this matter. First of all I am glad that the 5 still have their job and hope they will communicate through the prpoer proceedure from here on out. In my opinion i feel that they have done a discredit to this department by not bringing these issues behind closed doors. I see many comments in here that only part of the story is getting to the public. As far as our training center it does need a complete overhaul. The last adminstration put two firefighters with 5 years experiece and one with 8 years experience in chanrge of the training. I dont see how they could have possibly trained anyone. We need experience down there not just a body. No discredit to them but thats how most see it. Yes we need to move this department foward. We need to work on some real issues. Most of us know that the intrem chief is in charge at an unusual time due to budget shortfalls this has cost him to make decisions that I am confident that he did not wish to make. In 2004 we ran short on all units except rescue units but we survived as we will now. We have been running short on pumpers for many years. None of these individuals came foward at that time and why? Shortage of supplies: The last adminstration quit buying soap becaues they felt is was being wasted no one came foward then. We have been cut off on supplies many times becaues of budget proplems. How many people that complain now have used station supplies for their own personal use? How many have ran short on a unit to let a crew member go take care of personal issues. That happens every day but is ok when it is convenient to the individual. These are reocuring problems that no matter who is Chief cant be resolved over night and with out money to work with. I ask that we all come together and work through this. I still have many years left on this department and plan on doing them by being loyal to the citizens and leaders of Jackson. Please Jackson lets work thru this and bring pride back to our city.

Author

fireman1993

Date

2006-08-19T13:31:42-06:00

ID

122916

Comment

Fireman1993.....I'm completely confused as to why you are stating that the firemen 5 should now communicate thru the proper channels? Did you fail to hear the 'current news'? Melton is quoted as saying they (Firefighter 5) did talk to the interim chief, Brandon Falcon stated that he went to Chandler many times, Johnson said he went to Chandler many times as well as Vernon G. There statements regarding their attempt's have never been discredited, and the mayor said they did try and even talk with him, although the messages failed to get thru. THIS information was made public and no dispute was given by the other parties. So exactly how should they NOW follow the proper channel of communication within a dept. who obviously has not, or was unwilling to listen? If I understood correctly from the city council meeting yesterday, 2-3 of these firefighters were 20 + year veterans, do you feel you have more grasp of the fire dept. and or it's running then they do? From all accounts, these 5 did everything they could to follow guidelines and were refused! If Tony Davis is any indication of the way the fire dept. is being run at this time then it is painfully obviouse why this situation erupted as it did. Also, I don't think the fact that they had to bring 'soap' was the forefront of the situation. I believe from my understanding that it was the issue of having to bring their own toilet paper, when the city can provide that for the transients who wander around and use public buildings was actually the point being made, not soap. You are correct in saying you have many years left on the dept., and the understanding that many of us reached following the city council meeting (did you bother to attend?) was regarding the lack of leadership Chandler exhibited regarding the budget cut to all but the police dept. Apparently he simply said okay and went on. A REAL leader would have said, Wait - my people are already understaffed, and the only way we can meet even close to the requirements is to have over-time. The mayor is currently making the rounds explaining that he was unaware of the situation at the fire dept. - so, exactly how is Chandler taking care of the dept. and standing up for the firefighters when he doesn't apparently have it in him to make the mayor aware of the 'real deal' of the fire dept. personnel? It sounds to me like you are a Chandler supporter....which is fine if you are, but if the rumors circulating around the city at this time have any merit you might want to consider that you may soon be getting either another interim or a new chief! I'd be careful who I side with in case I step on the toes of one who one day might hold the cards, so to speak.

Author

Katie D

Date

2006-08-19T14:01:29-06:00

ID

122917

Comment

Katie I did not come here so you can badger me on who I support. The fact is that I support Melton so that would mean I support Chandler or whoever may hold the Fire Chief Position. Unlike others I might not agree with the person that is in charge but I must respect the position they hold and give them the support they deserve. I assume that you work in the private sector and nothing of the sort would be tollerated there would it. You either support your boss or you go get a new job.

Author

fireman1993

Date

2006-08-19T15:47:44-06:00

ID

122918

Comment

**Also, I don't think the fact that they had to bring 'soap' was the forefront of the situation. I believe from my understanding that it was the issue of having to bring their own toilet paper, when the city can provide that for the transients who wander around and use public buildings was actually the point being made, not soap.** <--Katie D, responding to fireman1993 (above) I am flabbergasted that the lack of basic supplies such as toilet paper and soap have emerged as a grievance among Jackson's firefighters. I know that the City's budget is tight. I acknowledge that. But what I don't know or understand is how much of the taxpayers' money is being spent to fund the operation of the Mobile Command Center when Melton engages in his so-called 'interdictions', including operationational costs (gas and maintenance, driver(s)' time, bodyguards, and the 4- or 5-car police cruiser escorts) that typically accompany those ineffective, silly, and 'made-for-TV' charades. We sit by and allow the Mayor to continually squander the City's limited resources while many (including firefighters themselves) bemoan the unmet needs of JFP. Indeed, something is wrong with that picture, and I know--as I suspect many Jacksonians do--exactly what the problem is: FRANK MELTON himself!! I simply cannot understand how or why the City Council members seem perfectly content to look the other way when fire protection, a basic and rudimentary public safety obligation, is overlooked by the Mayor and his minions. It's time for the Council to step up and do what is right! As much as I hate to admit it, things are NOT going to get much better as long as Melton continues to shirk his primary mayoral responsibilities in favor or press coverage chronicling his crazy, press-thirsty, peripheral and impotent maniacal shenanigans. I continue to be disheartened and embarassed by Mr. Melton. It is downright sickening!

Author

Kacy

Date

2006-08-19T16:17:27-06:00

ID

122919

Comment

fireman, I'm sure you know that it is a vastly different situation, constitutionally speaking, when you work in the public sector, and when you work in the private sector. In the public sector, your rights to speak up and out, especially about public safety are constitutionally protected. The truth is, those firefighters do not have to go through "the proper procedure" — especially when they've tried and gotten no decent response. It is the public's right to know what is going on in the Fire Department, the Police Department, City Hall and other government agenices, and Mayor Melton, Interim Chief Chandler, Chief Davis and other people in leadership positions are public servants, even if they do not seem to personally understand what that means. They work for the people, not the other way around. And Mr. Melton's assertion that he is not going to allow anyone to "talk negative" about the city of Jackson is patently absurd and unconstitutional. We all have the right to express what we want about the way our city is being run -- and it is none of Mr. Melton's bizwax. Any effort by him, as a public servant, to squelch such expression is a basic violation of constitutional rights. I really do wish someone would give this man a crash course in the U.S. Constitution. Better late than never for him to understand that it applies to him in a very dramatic and direct way now that he is an employee of the people. If he does not like that, he should return to the private sector. Same goes for other public servants who thumb their nose at the Constitution.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-19T16:27:49-06:00

ID

122920

Comment

Also, Kacy, you make a good point. A couple weeks back, we heard a lot of noise about how he's going to do better. He was offended that the JFP, and later the Ledger, listed the various flat-out lies he told the public during his first year in office. Then, he turns around and gets us mired in this embarassing and unconscionable attacks on these five firefighters. I see no indication that he is getting better. Attacks on firefighters indicating a deterioation of conditions, IMHO. It's truly remarkable to watch a man of his age show no ability to stop lying and making stuff up and blaming others for his own mistakes. I always say this: The worst part is that young people are watching a man in leadership act such a fool. Great example there, Mr. Melton. Great example.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-19T16:32:04-06:00

ID

122921

Comment

Ladd, MLK's words keep reverberating in my soul: "...How long?" will this continue to kill our city? In the name of God, where is our collective sense of urgency?

Author

Kacy

Date

2006-08-19T16:43:16-06:00

ID

122922

Comment

I know, Kacy. When is the "beloved community" going to stand together? It's hard to say—when some, though a shrinking number, still think that Melton has a "passion" for "fighting crime." He does have a passion for carrying guns in poor neighborhoods in front of TV cameras and looking threatening, but there ain't a lot of crime-fighting going on. It makes people who try to say that there is look a bit foolish. We can see that from the crime statistics that we finally pried out of the city after months of him telling us that crime "was falling." No, actually, he was lying about that, too.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-19T16:48:03-06:00

ID

122923

Comment

That so many Jacksonians (and suburbanites) endorse Melton's actions is highly troubling to me. And although I did not support Melton in the primary or general election, when he won, I was perfectly willing to give him a chance to prove himself. At every juncture, he's failed miserably. Now, having given him the benefit of the doubt, it's time to move on--before Jackson is left without even a faint heartbeat. This man is slowly, but surely, killing our city!

Author

Kacy

Date

2006-08-19T16:59:26-06:00

ID

122924

Comment

Sidney, we want to thank you all the firefighters who work hard everyday to help keep us safe. -pikersam It is truly a pleasure to serve the citizens of Jackson. Thank you all for your support. I believe that things are going to be better for the firefighters and the citizens. The mayor took a very important first step when we all sat down and talked. It's going to take a unified effort to bring things back where we want them to be. The mayor, the city council, the firefighters, etc have all committed to work together to get the job done.

Author

SidneyRJohnson

Date

2006-08-19T17:51:37-06:00

ID

122925

Comment

Also, Sidney, thank you for your kind comments. That's why we're here. Good luck. And we'll be here should things fall apart again, but I hope you're right that the city has learned some lessons here and will start to do the right thing. Cheers.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-19T17:54:33-06:00

ID

122926

Comment

Even though JFD-5 have made national news with this story, it should have been because of accomplishments of valor and not because of a know-it-all mayor, a whiny assistant chief and a wimpy fire chief. I am glad that they are all back doing what they love..............serving the public.

Author

lance

Date

2006-08-19T17:59:34-06:00

ID

122927

Comment

Well, lance, look at it this way—there is nothing wimpy and everything valorous in standing up to despotic tactics. I think they have become heroes in the eyes of many, likely including many young people. We need that right now badly.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-19T18:01:29-06:00

ID

122928

Comment

Amen Ladd. I meant the wimps (mayor, asst chief, and chief) should be doing everything in their power to put these firefighters out to the nation in a positive light. Not trying to suppress their freedom of speech.

Author

lance

Date

2006-08-19T18:04:43-06:00

ID

122929

Comment

We are in a pathetic state of affairs when we give credit to Melton for reinstating the firefigters and his willigness to sit down and "talk" with them. Even one of the involved firefighters gives him credit. WHY has this mess happened in the first place is the fundamental question. It's because the mayor will say or do anything when caught in a corner or he thinks that it will deflect attention from his bungling, bumbling, fumbling incompetence. How much further are we willing to lower our expectations and accept this man's bizarre behavior.

Author

tomac

Date

2006-08-19T18:06:17-06:00

ID

122930

Comment

Agreed, Lance. And with you, Tomac. I can understand why the firefighters would say that -- but the public ought to really take note of all the perpetual trailer-park drama that is the Melton administration.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-19T18:16:25-06:00

ID

122931

Comment

trailer-park drama notwithstanding, .. firefighters deserve so much respect. my cousin just retired from 26 years. they are so far and above any mayor in what they do and risk. and hello, free speech, what was happening with that? I do not live in Jackson, Vicksburg has a mayor with other problems, but that mayor, can there be a recall? maybe just no mayor at all would be better. so glad there was a good outcome to the situation. well, so far. so glad they spoke out. I love it, that's what everyone needs to do.

Author

sunshine

Date

2006-08-19T19:14:32-06:00

ID

122932

Comment

To all of you who want to know about the JFD read a copy of their union contract of which Chandler and Davis were part of the negotiations. It states the responsibilities of the city and the JFD. 5 members of the council signed off on it. i wonder if they read before they signed. This is an interesting contract and if followed would put the fire dept well above other fd's in this state. I don't believe FM has read it or even knows that it exist. McNulty and Johnson left them a good road map to follow so that they would never have another bad incident like that shooting years ago. I am told Tony Davis's hands were all over that. Good luck ff's and stay safe.

Author

jada

Date

2006-08-19T23:18:35-06:00

ID

122933

Comment

Yes Jada there is a contract in place that was made to take care of these issues. These issues should have been brought up by the grevance process that is set up in the contract. Maybe they could have been worked out way before this crap started. Our own Union President has circumvented the contract in that aspect. I know its hard to explain things such as the 2 in 2 out rule to most. If a crew was fully staffed with 4 they still have to wait on the second unit to have a man fully dressed and ready to back up the first two. Most back up units are on the scene by the time the crew is ready to attack the fire. True this is a issue that we have been fighting for years and we need to continue fighting for proper staffing but it didnt just start. Our hiring process is very difficult due to the consent decree. It took the personel department 10 months to get us to the point of the hiring process that we are at now. We are not the only city that runs short most cities do now. I believe Clinton runs with three on there pumpers and two on their ladder trucks, Other surrounding cities will shut down and entire unit before paying extra. It is up to our District Chief's to ensure that dispatch sends the extra unit to each fire call which the fire chief requested dispatch to do. I do say it would have been a bad year for any one that was in the position. Maybe City Council will do their job and ensure our public safety departments have a good budget to work with. Any donations would be helpful.

Author

fireman1993

Date

2006-08-20T11:58:15-06:00

ID

122934

Comment

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you that supported us during this past week, especially the Jackson Free Press. The tremendous outpouring that the public displayed will never be forgotten. And we will never the five of you for the risk you took. Thank you! Capt. Johnson, I will be sending you an email soon. I want to send you and your colleagues a gift to show my appreciation. It will be coming from this Web site I created in your honor.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2006-08-20T13:37:18-06:00

ID

122935

Comment

"AnD we will never FORGET". Left out a word.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2006-08-20T13:58:43-06:00

ID

122936

Comment

And we will never the five of you for the risk you took. -L.W. Thank you so much for your support. As firefighters we know that each time the alarm goes off that it means someone is possibly in distress. It is our passion as well as our job to help the public whenever they call. It is the most rewarding part of the job to know that we have helped someone in their time of need. We consider it an honor to serve the citizens of Jackson. I have been over a great portion of the U S, but there's no place like Jackson MS. It's "simple the best". Again, thank you L W and all of the readers of the Jackson Free Press!

Author

SidneyRJohnson

Date

2006-08-20T19:03:32-06:00

ID

122937

Comment

L.W. ..............Kewl! I just clicked on your link and LOVE IT I will definantly be ordering ME a sweatshirt! Fabulous...........I've called all my friends and/or sent emails letting them know what is available. What a great way to continue to show our support!

Author

Katie D

Date

2006-08-20T19:16:31-06:00

ID

122938

Comment

Yeah, L.W. That's cool stuff. I want a hoodie.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-20T19:30:42-06:00

ID

122939

Comment

Just wondering if anyone saw the quotes from Melton about Chandler in todays paper? Mayor Frank Melton maintains he supports the firefighters' union even after members blew the whistle on equipment and staffing shortages. Of the discontent inside the department, Melton said he thinks it is nothing that a little hard work won't cure. "It appears they have a lot of extra time on their hands to sit around and bicker," Melton said. As for the fate of the interim chief, Melton said: "Todd Chandler will be the fire chief as long as I am mayor."

Author

pikersam

Date

2006-08-20T19:48:31-06:00

ID

122940

Comment

Yeah, I saw it. One wonders if that means he will step down if the Council doesn't confirm Mr. Chandler. These days, he ought to be careful about waving around such an incentive. ;-) Seriously, it's hard to believe that Mr. Chandler is going to be fire chief for long after all this. Clearly, he is running the department very poorly, which many people predicted he would do. This part is remarkable and deeply offensive, especially from a man who works from home a good part of the time and hates to even go to his office: Of the discontent inside the department, Melton said he thinks it is nothing that a little hard work won't cure. "It appears they have a lot of extra time on their hands to sit around and bicker," Melton said. Deeply, deeply offensive.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-20T19:53:05-06:00

ID

122941

Comment

Of the discontent inside the department, Melton said he thinks it is nothing that a little hard work won't cure. "It appears they have a lot of extra time on their hands to sit around and bicker," Melton said. How insulting and judgmental! Most of all, it's oppressive. Sounds like something off a chain gang movie. I guess he'll make them cut grass when they're not fighting fires, huh? As for the fate of the interim chief, Melton said: "Todd Chandler will be the fire chief as long as I am mayor." If/When Chandler does not get confirmed, I think he'll backpedal on this statement.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2006-08-20T20:20:32-06:00

ID

122942

Comment

Thank you so much for your support. As firefighters we know that each time the alarm goes off that it means someone is possibly in distress. It is our passion as well as our job to help the public whenever they call. It is the most rewarding part of the job to know that we have helped someone in their time of need. You're welcome! Keep fighting. I just clicked on your link and LOVE IT I will definantly be ordering ME a sweatshirt! - Katie D Yeah, L.W. That's cool stuff. I want a hoodie. - Ladd Thanks, ladies!

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2006-08-20T20:28:05-06:00

ID

122943

Comment

Just a hint to the "wise" fireman1993 - You can talk all day about your support of melton and chandler but, it comes a time in everyone's work career that you must stand up for what is right, fair, moral/ethical and legal. You must know that liability, these days, cuts deep and because you support melton and chandler will not save your hide if any of their wrong-doings (directives) cause you to be a participant in any way. This is just a "hint to the wise" and it is my hope that it is "sufficient!"

Author

justjess

Date

2006-08-21T11:12:15-06:00

ID

122944

Comment

I am currently a resident in Jackson, MS. I would like to say that the "5" did nothing but embarrass themselves as well as our city. It is no surprise that there were budget cuts. Doesn't this happen everywhere??? As far as running short because of the cuts...I don't think this is the first time a fire truck has ever run short and I sure don't think that it is a result of Todd Chandler. I personally think Todd Chandler is doing a wonderful job considering some of the employees that he has to deal with...the "5". How out of rank were they to act so foolishly in the media. From what I can understand from all of this bickering...it appears that some folks are just unhappy because they are not getting their way. My children act like that too.....ARE WE SURPRISED? To all of you who sit back and bad mouth people and situations you don't know and understand...you need to get the complete story before passing judgment. The media and the papers do not help in telling the truth or entire story. It is usually one sided and judgemental to keep the hipe going.. Since Melton allowed the "5" to go back to work....where is the media now. It hasn't even been on the news since....Media...where are you? It appears that the only job they done is to keep stirring the pot.

Author

JFDSUPPORTER

Date

2006-08-22T08:54:20-06:00

ID

122945

Comment

A wonderful collection of non sequiters there, JFDSUPPORTER. Budget cuts do not happen everywhere. They would not have happened here if there had been a tax increase, as Melton originally proposed. Certainly, the $200,000 from UMC might have helped. I agree that this is not the first time trucks have gone out short of men, but there is good evidence that this is the first time it has become routine. Regardless, whether it has ever happened before--and you seem to be speculating--that is not the question. The question is whether we as a community should accept it. Unhappy firefighters have brought legitimate, fact-based concerns to the public's attention. This is not "bickering." They are not uppity even if they were "out of rank." Comparing these men to your own (apparently ill-behaved) children is insulting and ridiculous. You urge us to get the whole story, but you present no evidence of any sort whatsoever. Instead, there is only your invective. Unless you have something substantial to contribute--you know, some piece of evidence or even just a real argument that amounts to more than name-calling--then you are just wasting our time. By the way, we do have another article coming on the firefighters. We only come out once a week, my friend.

Author

Brian C Johnson

Date

2006-08-22T10:43:23-06:00

ID

122946

Comment

If your children are out there speaking out to the public about threads to their public safety, jfpsupporter, you are raising some mighty fine kids. ;-) It's funny how you berate the JFD 5 in one breath for stepping out of rank to speak out, then you berate us for "not knowing" "the complete story." As for the media, I can only speak for this one. We have been covering the problems in the Fire Department for over a year now, and Adam has been reporting what the other media just picked up for many months. We're not going away anytime soon. The city of Jackson and its problems is *this* newspaper's main concerns.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-08-22T11:36:40-06:00

ID

122947

Comment

Unless you have something substantial to contribute--you know, some piece of evidence or even just a real argument that amounts to more than name-calling--then you are just wasting our time. -Brian C Johnson The city of Jackson and its problems is *this* newspaper's main concerns. -Ladd And THAT my friend is the bottom line!

Author

lance

Date

2006-08-22T12:13:54-06:00

ID

122948

Comment

Dear JFDSUPPORTER, Your blog is disturbing! Maybe this is just a knee-jerk reaction because of some special relationship you have with Chandler/melton and that is ok to befriend a friend and support one who supports you. This is personal stuff; however, you can not dictate policy and procedure for those who believe that their rights are being violated, that their lives are at an even greater risk secondary to staff reduction and other issues. When the JFD is at risk, our community is at risk. When there is strife and dissention within a department, the community also suffers. This is an organization with history or has everyone forgotten the Torens story? I commend the 5 men who were brave enough to speak up and speak out. If there had been any grounds for termination, it would have happened. This was one that frank and the chief knew was a lose, lose situation. Frank complimented the F5 and said they were "just great guys." I was saddened by your example of your kids being just like the firefighters (speaking out?) This is one to be careful with because so many kids are sexually, physically and emotionally abused and because they fear complaining (talking) to parents, they shut down. Their stories are not told until they are unable to function and become products of their negative painful experiences. The last thing a parent should want is to shut their kids down or use them in some comparative analysis of an egregious situation. These 5 great firefighters were not BREAKING DOWN the department: They were BREAKING THROUGH to this community who very obviously care a lot about you men and women. Don't fight the words (media) that help. Yesterday it was the Firefighter 5, tomorrow it might be you - the fighfighter 1 (ONE) and you will stand alone. -Perhaps you can view this as a teachable moment: I've had many in my life.

Author

justjess

Date

2006-08-22T14:20:31-06:00

ID

122949

Comment

Am I correct in what I just heard? Chandler NOR Davis lives in Jackson? What kind of bull is this? No wonder they are not getting the job done! They don't give a damn about Jackson, they only want their paychecks. I heard Davis on the radio show talk bad about Ben Allen about he had a business outside the city of Jackson and so forth. Then he told us about all of the places he has lived in the city and how he loved Jackson...........this nincompoop dosen't even live here himself! Talk about being a hypocrite. This dummy cannot even vote in our elections, dosen't pay taxes here, and won't be affected if our insurance goes up. I don't blame the firefighters about wanting him and Chandler gone. They are part of the problem of this city losing its tax base, residents, and etc.

Author

rufus

Date

2006-08-25T06:40:41-06:00

ID

122950

Comment

I know that the city law, ordinance or whatever says that they have to live in Hinds county, but these two buffoons are the department leaders. They are supposed to lead by example. Does anyone have any statistics about just how many firefighters do and do not live in Jackson? Why would an assistant chief be so ignorant on a public radio station? Hey Frank, are you going to discipline him for his negative comments that he made? This soap opera has gotten old. We need a new one.

Author

rufus

Date

2006-08-25T06:45:31-06:00