Do Not be fooled by propaganda and untruths that are being distributed. The IAFF is trying to save their jobs and in the process are putting out lies or at the least incorrect information. I would like to say to "JackO", if you are for real (people just post stuff sometimes) hang in there and check with Orange City, they have volunteers. The IAFF does not welcome volunteer firefighters, as a matter of fact they run them off with poor treatment and contempt. The county had a strong volunteer program until the Union. Now volunteers are referred to as "Ticks" by the department that started with volunteers.

As for Community Support that is on the propaganda site; the IAFF members do not support community volunteer programs in Debary. "No pay, No play". They wouldn't even come out to support the Orange City officer that was shot in the face for a benefit breakfast, while other agencies did come in and support the officer.

OK now to some intersting facts about the Debary Fire Services debate that was initiated when the County of Volusia has elected to end services (a business decision).

1. There has never been a formal proposal for the building of a new fire station in Debary, made by Volusia County for any “long term” contract. It had been mentioned in unofficial talks several years ago, but was never negotiated.

2. Orange City and Deltona Fire both have Hazardous Material and Technical Rescue response capability, as well as the County must provide this assistance if asked for it at no charge to the city. This is because of funding sources (State and Federal) and the teams are multi-jurisdictional teams (not solely Volusia County Fire personnel). There is no reason for a proposal bid for these services.

3. Volusia County has not provided a bid for the upcoming Fiscal Year and has sent an official letter terminating services. They have offered to extend service until January 1, 2010 if needed. The contract that is being put out, as “the better price” is this current years total budget cost. There was never a line item budget in place, which is why the county cannot account for fund expenditures.