Vernon Roof

1. What inspired you to run for elected office?

Fire and emergency medical services has been my life since 1974. Having been in emergency services, I would like to apply the same common sense and methodical approach to problem solving, but in an administrative function. The transition from saving lives and property to being a responsible guardian of public funds is why I decided to run for office.

2. What unique qualifications would you bring to office that no one else could match?

Firefighter I & ll, emergency medical technic- ian, firefighter/paramedic, fire captain/paramedic, division chief training & safety, hazardous materials technician & specialist, state certified instructor for fire, emergency medical services and hazardous materials programs, paramedic field training officer, public information officer, fire inspector.

3. What are the most important issues facing the community? Why?

What is the future outlook for the Northside Fire

District ? There is a considerable amount of citizen discussion and questions concerning: station staffing, consolidation, joint power agreements, volunteer recruitment/ retention, increased tax assessment & responsible management of public funds.

4. How do you plan to address these issues?

Establish both short and long term plans/ goals for the district, which are realistic, achievable, fiscally responsible and transparent. Encourage increased participation by citizens and groups. The “pulse of a community, cannot be gauged with little or no feedback, from the citizens we are tasked to protect”. There are times negative feedback can be just as beneficial to an organization.

5. If elected, what legacy would you hope to create? Why?

Truthfulness, professionalism, common sense & the ability to trouble shoot & listen to a problem or situation and come up with a successful resolution. Realizing full well that no matter what the outcome, some will hail the decision while others are unhappy. “ You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do.” Henry Ford

6. How do you foresee your typical workday as an elected official?

This office does not have a set weekday routine, but at minimum, includes a weekday to approve budget expenditures and a monthly public meeting. I would like to incorporate periodic visits to training sessions and non emergency response to certain incident types. The visits would serve to reinforce my commitment to both command staff, firefighters and the public.

7. What do you most look forward to after you are elected?

Working with other Northside Fire commissioners, fire district command staff, firefighters, neighboring fire/EMS agencies and most importantly the citizens. In the past, I have been able to help the district, by presenting ideas. Now I will look forward to participating in being able to implement ideas.

8. What’s the harshest criticism you expect to face on the campaign trail and how would you respond to such criticism?

That I am not from the area, was a paid firefighter and came from California. You don’t have a choice who comes to your fire or medical emergency when you dial 911. Why not hedge your bet and go with the guy with 40-plus years of experience who would be representing Northside Fire District.

9. If you could only get one thing across to voters during your campaign, what would it be?

Change is good, Change is sometimes necessary and though it is sometimes painful, Change often provides positive results.

10. What question should every candidate be asked? What is your answer?

If you should not be elected to the position, will this affect your participation and support of the Northside Fire District ? No. I will still offer my assistance/support in the teaching of local and state sponsored classes.