For about three years the city of Cedar Falls has begun using dual-trained public safety officers — PSOs — to help fight fires. There has been push back. Now two veteran firefighters have quit the force. James Cook worked as a full-time firefighter in Cedar Falls for 12 years, but left this month due to safety concerns.
- PUB DATE: 9/21/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier

In a community reeling from not only historic flooding but a workplace shooting Wednesday, the Middleton Fire Department is reflecting on its response while looking toward the future. Officers shot and killed the shooter, identified as 43-year-old Anthony Y. Tong, of Madison, who attacked people at a Middleton software company, injuring several, officials said.
- PUB DATE: 9/21/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WISC-TV Channel 3000.com Madison

Two Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department employees are suing the City of Jacksonville, saying they were retaliated against for testifying in a racial discrimination case. That complaint was filed by JFRD Capt. Eric Mitchell. The employees said they were told they need to "get rid of" Mitchell. This isn't the first time JFRD has faced allegations of discrimination and hostile work environments concerning African-American firefighters.
- PUB DATE: 9/21/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WTEV-TV 47

Town of Oneonta Fire District commissioners voted Thursday night 3 to 2 for dissolution, turning the job of negotiating a fire protection contract over to the Oneonta Town Board, which objects to the step. Supervisor Robert Wood said the Town Board plans to take legal action to block the dissolution.
- PUB DATE: 9/21/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Oneonta Daily Star

The Mount Zion Fire Protection District will start providing coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week, beginning in October, fire Chief Don Wright said Thursday. Wright said his impending retirement Oct. 31 allowed the department to split his salary and hire two additional full-time firefighters.
- PUB DATE: 9/21/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Herald & Review