Community news and information by Tom Harris, Associate Editor
In the August 2024 edition of the MVFA’s publication, Mosquito Byte, MFPD Chief Eddie Dwyer addressed the community in a column titled “Chief’s Message.” Chief Dwyer, who returned to the Mosquito Fire Protection District (MFPD) after previously serving as chief from August 2016 to February 2020, detailed his efforts to support and enhance the department. His return focuses on training firefighters and building their skills and competencies.
Chief Dwyer highlighted that the department’s operations are supported by a FEMA Recruitment and Retention Grant, which allows for the hiring and training of personnel. However, the grant provides only a modest stipend of $150 per 24-hour shift, translating to $6.25 an hour with no benefits. As these positions are volunteer-based, they do not meet minimum wage standards. Chief Dwyer emphasized that the community should recognize the dedication of firefighters, who serve to ensure safety despite receiving compensation well below poverty level.
Chief Dwyer also addressed recent criticisms from some community members, who have accused the department of a “cover-up” regarding disciplinary matters. He clarified that, in accordance with California Labor Laws, any personnel issues are handled privately and cannot be disclosed to individuals outside the direct authority over the employee involved.
Dwyer states, “Any person with even the slightest knowledge of California Labor Laws will know that personnel matters cannot be discussed with any person who is not in a direct position of authority over that employee and that all disciplinary actions must remain private.… Despite all the community groups that exist in the district, It is understood that there is only one Fire Authority. Established as a special district in1978 under charter with the state of California, the Mosquito Fire Protection District is the only recognized Fire Authority in this district. Through State Statute, the Fire District is managed by a Board of Directors who in turn, delegate the legal authority of enforcement to one entity. That one entity is the Fire Chief.
Any Council or community group that releases information regarding emergency operation or community evacuation that circumvents the authority delegated to the Fire District, places themselves in a state of civil and criminal liability
MFPD Chief Eddie Dwyer
To be clear, there is no other group or council in this community that has the authority for the operations of emergency services or to coordinate emergency response, establish mutual aid or partner with other local emergency service providers and authorities. The Fire District is the only legal authority that other first responding agencies will recognize to coordinate with and resolve emergency events. The Fire Chief is the only person in this community which Law Enforcement conveys authority to establish incident management and incident command.
Any Council or community group that releases information regarding emergency operation or community evacuation that circumvents the authority delegated to the Fire District, places themselves in a state of civil and criminal liability. Any message distributed by any group or council that creates a state of confusion for the public regardless of intent can face criminal prosecution.
– Chief Eddie Dwyer
To read Chief Dwyer’s entire message, go to http://www.goMVFA.org, then click on the “Byte” link at the top of the page, then “Newsletter, 2023 – Current”, then click on “August 2024”.
Community Blog 