local conflicts

         The Belmont Fire Department got caught up in a conflict with another local fire department.  The San Carlos Fire Department sent them a letter asking to dissolve their partnership of decades.  Belmont was left out to dry because of financial issues.  Approximately 3 years later the affects of the split are still being felt.  Ironically, San Carlos has taken a bigger hit than Belmont.  They cannot afford to keep all fire stations open at all times so the fire station in the San Carlos hills is only open part time. When grievances like this occur the San Mateo County Firefighters Union, or as the firefights call it “local 2400”, has to try to fix it.  The local 2400 came up with many ideas to try to fix the issue.  They suggested combining the Foster City, Belmont, and San Mateo fire departments.  The firefighters were not pleased with this solution so they fought it.  Most of the time the firefighters turn to local 2400 to represent them as a county, but during the split there was tension. 

         The local 2400 helps the firefighters of San Mateo County pass legislation, get fair wages, pensions, and benefits.  Local 2400 is basically their representative when dealing with the state and other complex local issues.  These representatives have been instrumental in passing legislation on behalf of the fire department.  Local 2400 is most concerned with their safety.  The Belmont Fire Department is accountable to them and when state mandates get handed down, local 2400 enforces them.  When the firefighters do not like the mandates, local 2400 hears about it.  For example, the state passed a mandate requiring that any time a police officer or firefighter is on the road, they have to wear a bright vest.  Many times this is on top of their heavy gear.  Local 2400 definitely does more good than bad, but occasionally a conflict arises.

         Although technically the fire department is accountable to local 2400, the firefighters are also accountable to the citizens.  They have to take great care to make sure their relationship with the community is solid.  Some of the determinants of a good relationship are fast response times, partnering with other local entities, and voluntary community engagement.  The fire department has a partnership with the police department and EMT.  Whenever the fire department is called an EMT has to be present on the engine.  Most of the calls are medical and the fire department has to provide initial treatment before an ambulance arrives.  Their partnership with other local entities enables them to keep a smooth relationship with the community as a whole.