FFs Say IA City Has 'Waged War' on Fire Department

Members of the West Liberty Volunteer Fire Department have sent a written notice to end its association with the city, citing that the city has "waged war" against the department.

In the letter sent to city officials, the department stated, “For reasons unknown to the Department, the city administration has waged war upon its volunteers through demanding complete control of Department operations and finances without transparency, harassing volunteers, and stalling in the hiring of EMS personnel.”

Firefighters said they will continue to protect the community under a new 28E Agency, KCRG reported. 

That requires a governing board comprised of city and rural representatives.

Department members hope to find some resolution by May 1.

If they do not come to an agreement, firefighters said the city will need to seek alternative solutions for fire protection and that the city’s decision could impact their ISO rating, causing tax increases for residents and business owners.