At the meeting last night, it was announced that the city had 12 applications for the contract engineer position they want to hire to evaluate our infrastructure. Of that number, one in particular appealed to them but before we could offer him the position, he took a job somewhere else.
At that point it was announced that through Chamlin and Associates, they would hire Mike Perry, a Chamlin employee for the position and Chamlin would in effect oversee the work. I think that Mr Perry is a very qualified person but it is disturbing to know that the city was unable to find an engineer in need of work, especially in this down economy and the fact that this position was extensively advertised online and through engineering publications. Also disturbing because it has been known for sometime that the city needs some new blood to do some city engineering work, someone who works for the city and is their employee and receives their direction from the Mayor and City Council.
The city needs to hire a City Engineer, one that will be on the payroll of the city and works hand in hand with a Superintendent of Public Works to improve so much that is continuing to deteriorate in the city. Someone whose only goal is to work for Peru.
Right down it looks like the city is undergoing demolition: the old power plant on Water Street, the swimming pool, Westclox, the bank in downtown Peru, large empty buildings as the former Jewel store, former Lay Furniture and soon to be empty K Mart and Joanne Fabric stores, empty lot next to Burger King. Did I miss any thing?
127 comments:
Yes you missed Nero playing the fiddle while Rome burned!
Of the 12 applications received only 1 was qualified to fill the position? Who, in our city, is qualified to hire such personnel? Who would be qualified to hire a city engineer? Curious!
Also, could someone please explain to me the meaning of the signs that are popping up in town? The ones with the city logo and the mayor and city councils name on them. They don't make any sense to me and if the city paid for them I think it's a waste of taxpayers money. My opinion!
SO MUCH FOR CHANGE!!!!! OR IS THIS THE CHANGE EVERYONE VOTED FOR?
go to PeruPages blog for an explaination of the signs. as far as change goes - he is already taking our dollars, so he might as well "keep the change"
The sensible way to fine an engineer would to be hire a "head hunter," !! Believe me, they will find the right person with the qualifications for the job. Also, maybe they wouldn't be in bed with each other, or should I say scratching each others back. 12 apps., only 1 qualified? That in itself raises some suspicion. My opinion.
Signs and what happened to the City farmland? Please tell us that the Mayor is not responsible for these fiascos at city hall. How much farmland was taken out of city production for a concert? And how much was paid for the signs including labor? Which Alderman approved the farmland use and which one approved the signs? I doubt it was Mayor Harl!
I am not aware that either came to the city council for a vote.
the grapevine says it was the mayor anon 1:35. on both issues
King Harl will never admit to doing it unless he can get his picture in the paper. He's just gotta go come on April 2013.
? The council amended the 2012-13 budget to remove bookkeeping for Operation Promise, an anti-drinking and driving production with a film to educate teenagers. Alderman Perez, who is closely involved with the program,
Agreed but chose not to cast a vote because of his involvement. O.k., did Rodney get paid by the
City or fire department for his involvement? ? How much, if paid and by who? Who approved it if he got paid or did he volunteer his time? Did other fireman/chiefs get paid also? How much exactly did production cost?? Whats "removing bookkeeping" mean? I found interesting that Rodney doesnt answer questions regarding the fire department for the fact being an alderman. Questions not voting power. Question asked of bloggers from months ago and recently. Has anybody noticed this??? Also Rodney, did you get paid to help with concert for a
Cause last year from the fire Department? This blog probably needs it's own title. Who is in charge of Peru's fire department??? Maybe they should answer.
Read the news tonight. City has secret checkbooks, property given away to concert, contractor problems. The same contract in which the city had to get a loan to pay ahead of job? Don't forget to get your next wedding scheduled or donate to the never ending campaign fundraising. Welcome to Peru.
3:38 PM
Alderman Perez does not get paid for any of his volunteering and no one involved with this Operation Promise get paid and also Ald. Perez did not get paid for volunteering for Concert for a Cause last year. That was the concert where the donation was made to the Peru Pool Fund.
3:38 PM
I don't know who is in charge of the PFD, no one has been there to represent them for about a month at city council meetings.
Mayor Harl had to know about the signs especially if HIS name is on them. WHAT A WASTE OF MONEY! THIS IS NOTHING BUT A DUMB CAMPAIGN PLOY AT THE TAXPAYERS EXPENSE!
Regarding the very first blog. Kinda like, when Mayor Harl APPOINTED Fire Chief KING in 09. Does Mayor Harl have any qualifications in fire science/safety ???? Did Mayor Harl APPOINT POLICE Chief Bernabei? Amazing! 12 applications for engineer, only one good. How many applications in 09 for fire chief did Harl get so he could choose his appointment???? Paid position taxpayers, should have been advertised!!!!!!! ????? Equal Opportunity Employer!
Thanks Lois. And Rodney thank you for ur true
Volunteerism. Lois, spotlight handlers on fire equipment for crowd control and traffic by numerous fireman. They actually donates their time and volunteered?? Maybe Mayor Harl would know where our PFD Has been. Isn't that department head suppose to attend council meetings? Thanks again Lois. Maybe PFD on vacation again, so who is really in charge?
5:07 Of course mayor Harl knew about the signs. He had them made up by Apple Press and had public works put them together and place them.
wasnt chamlin a big deal when the election was going on this current mayor talked non stop about change??? what changed nothing, where is our tried and true mayor for 40 some years?? wish he was still here that is for sure the grass isnt always greener on the other side-if you know what i mean
7:27PM
Speaking of green and grass in the same sentence makes me think of our parks and thinking of our parks reminds me that we have a Horticulturist in our employee. At that point I do wonder why our parks look so neglected. Sure grass gets kind of cut but everything else looks shabby. Many people believe our parks represent our community. Somehow nothing I have just written about adds up. Year after year we say the same thing and year and year we get the same results.
employ not employee
The firemen that attended the concert last year got credit for fire call(s). nobody really volunteers down there, they get paid for fire calls. When they miss a fire call the person signs them in as if they were there. That is how they get paid for their time at events. But Rodney does do operation promise all on his own time. He came up with the event and ranwith it, Great job Rod.
What's all the worry about? I know someonr that reports superintendants for using their trucks for personal use on the clock pulling their trailers and working at their parents house and bldg inspectors using the city vehicle to shop on the clock and other super that sits at home all day to the mayor and nothing is done. Our mayor is such a waste. He tells the alderman that he appoints the department heads and they have no say over what they do.He can't manage anyone because all he sees is a campaign contribution or a lost vote if he was to do his job and manage. If anyone was to do half of what Alderman Perez did for our kids or our town Peru wouldn't be the laughing stock if the Illinois Valley. The Alderman need to stand up for their wards and put the Mayor in his place and stop pissing our tax dollars away.
Wasn't all that "signing in" for calls reported to the city last year? I think it was in the paper too. Alderman Potthoff was very vocal against that practice not taking place. Who are these guys that supposibly running Peru? Is there noone checking up on these departments ? Is Harl that bad of a mayor? That's basic management.
But the operation promise still costs money and takes away resources from departmnets for the filming! Why is this out of the budget? Rod must pay for it himself! I bet if something else was taken out he would be all over it! Smoking Mirrors?
Stop bashing the pfd. All i read on this blog site is how the pfd isn't represented properly and over staffed and firemen getting paid. Its the 2012 people. The pfd is going to grow and with growth comes change. Why wouldn't we want the pfd to be properly staffed and paid accordingly? They are the ones risking their lives to save complete strangers. Yes, Strangers. That's the ultimate sacrifice. Ask yourself if you'd do the same? Im suprised there aren't more fulltime employees there. If my house was on fire id want firemen AT the station and properly staffed in order to save my family and/or property.
I hope everyone in the city gives credit to those who deserve it in public service. There are also many unsung heroes in our life who sometimes risk their own life to help someone else and we also want to thank all of them.
ANON 9:38 Yes, they do risk their lives for strangers (and for that we are all grateful). But, let's remember they choose to become a firefighter just as a policeman choose his profession. No one forced them into their positions.
Is peru's city council asleep? The 25 signs advertising "mayor Scott Harl.". Did the city workers volunteer their time to frame the signs? Or, did we taxpayers pay them? Who bought the wood? Sand Bags? Wow! Unbelievable, This is right up there with Kiss the Bride.
WHO DO THEY THINK IS PAYING FOR THE ROAD CONSTRUCTION, OGLESBY???
ANON 4:17 What do you think? Taxpayers money was used to purchase the signs do you really think city workers would volunteer their time to assemble them? Also, I think these signs are supposed to represent work being done with the 1/2% sales tax increase. I thought ward streets were done with Motor Fuel Tax and that the 1/2% sales tax money was to be used for the Eakas expansion and north end projects. By the way, does anyone know how that sales tax increase is going thus far? Are we collecting what we anticipated?
The money to pay for those signs should come out of the mayor's campaign fund. Because that is all those signs are meant for...campaigning!
Harl is in fools paradise! He's a joke like his town! Sorry but its true. He has totally lost it.
Lois,
Just to Clarify... I do receive compensation for the Public Education I do for the Fire Department such as: Operation Prom-ise, Concerts for a Cause, Fire Prevention Week at grade schools, Juvenile Fire Setting Interventions, Etc. I also receive "gifts" once in awhile...Like the one I just received today from Mrs.Pletsch 1st grade classroom at Northview School from Fire prevention.
When "Volunteers" such as myself reach out with hopes of opening eye's of others, and saving a life,or working with Juveniles that need a male role model in there life to guide them along..The "Gifts" of "Giving" and the "Compensation"of Making a difference in someone's Life is.. "Priceless!!" There is no $ amount that can be put on the Feeling of Doing the Right Thing! ( Volunteering does Pay;-)I would never cheapen the word "VOLUNTEER" by taking pay for doing what I Love to do.
P.S.. whether it be public education, or volunteering for a cause such as last year..."No monetary compensation, just another gift of giving;-)
Thank you!
Rodney Perez
8:21
Just to clarify..I did not get compensated for the concert. I was volunteering for the pool committee.
Thanks!
Rodney Perez
The position being filled by Mike Perry should be let out for bids. Since it could and probably will be over $20,000. It was done for the landfill. Also I know Mike, he is a professional person, but his degree is in chemical engineering. In other words it will be farmed out to another employee of Chamblin. With the amount of money the city pays the SPW an engineer could be hired and a foreman could lead the PW and report to the engineer.
Lois,
Just a FYI For the blog fans.
My above post may come across to some as if I get compensated with "money" for my volunteer work.
The only compensation I receive for Operation Prom, Fire Prevention Ed. Etc. Doesn't come in a check or cash...It comes in gifts, such as the colored drawing i get from 1st grade class rooms covered with Hearts and
Firetrucks saying "Thank You!!"That's Priceless:-)
My point was... Compensation doesn't have to be tied to $ or corruption.
Thanks again!
Rodney
Rodney, thanks for making a difference and for the clarifications regarding your services. How many fireman got paid for concert for a cause last year? How many calls were they paid for at $32 each? Were each fireman paid for 1,2,3,4,5 call for time spent at concert. Thus was blogged and nobody answered. Was a bill sent anywhere? And to who? Is there any documents?? Our taxpayers pay for this? Are you Rodney in charge of peru's fire department? If not, you should be. Thanks again.
Great question 10:52. If each fireman got paid for 2 calls, that's $64, 3 calls $96, 4 calls $128, etc... That's unbelievable money. Union scale maybe. 10-12 fireman at concert????? We taxpayers paid for someones personal gain? Maybe??? And saw concert. To operate spotlights and traffic control????? Who's in charge. This isn't the first time I've read these question! Let's wait and see if they are answered. Rodney, you are a true volunteer.
Lois, as it's understood from Rodneys above blogs that he volunteered for the concert last year (Peru pool). HOWEVER, NOBODY is answering the questions about the firemans/chiefs payments for being there. It seems by no one answering that something is being HIDDEN or COVERED UP!!!!!! Taxpayers Monies!!!!!
9:58 PM
I did answer what I found out and that was that yes they were paid but it was not the standard per hour of $34.70 per hour but more like minimum wage.
Lois, another coverup! You can't pay wages below the standard set or pay less for a special event. Another YES, but we did this? And if your performing as a volunteer bartender and saying you donated your time as a firemen is misleading.
Lois. So fireman got paid for basically one fire
Call. Formthe whole time they were at concert? Did u see this on paper. With dates? WHO gave u info? Thanks Lois. Ive learned not to believe what one says, proof!
I'm not understanding $34.70 PER HOUR. Very unclear, or am I missing something?????? Lois, did Rodney give this info to you? If not, who did?
Sounds like "Mike" wanted the engineer job!
Back to the signs....How much was the cost. Why was the newspaper article planted with only a $1400 cost? No employee time?
When has this newspaper ever done investigative journalism on its own?
It simply prints what is reported. If you had called in first and reported the signs had cost $14,000 there is a good possibility that is what you would have been reading in the paper. Sad but proof is in comparison to the Ottawa Times.
Or cost for the wood which framed them. Or the cost of the time for someone to place them all over. And, do they meet the new specifications just established for signs? Both size and placement??
Speaking of the Firedepartment.could Rodney or Lois answer a question?Rodney should know.Twice I saw Jim duncan with a brace on his neck.one time in the newspaper about 2 weeks ago then another time like last week during a fire at the gas station on shootingpark road. Question is,was this a city related injury? Does Jim Duncan get paid foer being at those responses? If he has an injury where he has to wear a brace on his neck why would the city allow him to be involved?is he a liability to peru if he gets hurt while there? Does the city pay him to be there while he cant possibly be able to perform his job.does he have a doctors release to perform tasks? i'm sure no emergencey scene is safe for anyone especially in that condition.Law suit here you go.Is he paid?
To Anom 2:41pm I do not have a degree in engineering and do not want the job. But at least I have a name not like you. I express my concerns from experience. Also it is 8:40 am Sat. and 2 city empoyees are in Centennial doing the overtime garbage pickup. They did not have to get out of the vehicle.
Looking for investigative reporting skills for the signgate and airportgate. Need not be caliber of Washington post reporters, just find the real story! How much, Who authorized, Who is covering up.
Come on...they're out there checking garbage cans again on overtime? This is SO wrong!! I believe that ALL blog-readers that feel this is a total waste of taxpayers money should flood this blog page until we get answers. This topic could actually earn its own title and see how many comments are made. City officials, other than Rodney need to wake up and hear the taxpayers concerns. Do your damn job...we are paying you to represent the tax paying citizens! I know all of you city employees that are benefiting from this useless overtime are laughing all the way to the bank.
I think what needs to happen is people need to start bombarding the council meetings and demanding answers to these very legitimate questions. If it's written in a contract (the O.T. clause) review it when renegotiating. If they have to work this O.T. assign them a constructive task. How much did the grass seed for the concert cost ($1000 or $4000)? Have someone bring in the bill of sales. How much land was taken out of production for the concert? Ask the airport manager or the city engineer. Surely they know. I, for one, want answers to legitimate questions. Such as, where is the Pickleball equipment and when and how will it become available to the general public? To me it's a matter of openness and honesty. Simple communication between our representatives and those who elected them - the citizens of Peru.
Do not blame the city workers for mismanagement. BLAME MANAGEMENT!
Why are they emptying garbage cans when they could be trimming around the trees and the dog park looks terrible.
If you ask anyone in the city anything all you get is the run around. If you leave a message or voicemail, forget about a return call.
Of coarse Asst. Fire Chief Dyncan got paid for bring at fire call ($32?), plus his yearly salary. Fire Chief Jeff King could have been on ANOTHER vacation or out of town, if he wasn't at calls. Those two are best friends and Duncan covers up for King all the time. I've heard that chief King sometimes tells asst. Chief Duncan when he will be M.I.O., and Duncan tries to hush it. This has Bren going in for years. The fire department fireman with injuries SHOULD not be at fire calls let alone get paid by us taxpayers. Just show up and get paid.
Why doesn't Fire Chief King or Assistant Fite Chief Duncan ever Answer Any Questions we taxpayers have asked?? We pay them and they should answer. Why aren't they? What are they hiding?????? Check questions from the last 7-8 months that have been asked, but not answered. Don't forget that Mayor Harl appointed the fire chief. I heard when chief was appointed by Harl, it came with a substantial raise in salary. Maybe someone can check . What did Gary Eccles make in 07,08? Jeff King get in 09,2010,2011?? Would be interesting to know. Just chief/fire Marshall position. This would not include paid per calls they go to, that's another check they receive monthly.
M.I.A. Missing in a action not m.i.o. I agree. That's like being a lifeguard with a neck brace on and going to work at pool and get paid.
You people must be on drugs. Does anyone really believe that you might get an answer from a dept head, dept chief, mayor, or any city council members (other than Rod or occasionally Sherry) in regards to any of your questions? Come on people, wake up. There is not much openness, honesty, nor integrity in this town. Peru has really reached rock-bottom over the last couple of years. Look at the big picture...wasted overtime; city reps not representing; businesses closing doors, and not many new businesses moving in town; fire dept issues; city employees stealing from the city, in broad day light; streets falling apart; ambulance dept issues; swimming pool out of service, and it looks like a septic tank; vacant electric bldg greeting visitors as they come into town from the south...OK I'm done for now. I could really list several more items. Ride around town and look, keep your ears open, talk to city employees...you'll really start to wonder what happened to good 'old city of Peru. Shame on you city reps and shame on all of us for allowing this to get as bad as it has!!
In agreement. Rodney and Sherry are trying. One point however, Rodney is on the fire department and also an alderman. Therefore if he saw an insurance liability(Asst. Chief Duncan in neck brace at fire call/calls, getting paid by taxpayers, it makes me wonder about Rodney also. Maybe Rodney treads water in regards to the fire department as to answering questions. I believe Rodney doesn't speak up and answer when he knows it would cause waves. He's not afraid to voice his opinion on most other issues with Peru, but not there fire department.
AMEN 11:23 Well said!
Rodney has the answers to all the questions, he is the committee chairman. In charge of Fire Department issues. Is it a conflict if you collect a paycheck and also the committee?
I'm sure if Rodney spoke out on what was going on he'd be suspended like the last fireman who spoke out. And most wouldn't believe him when he tells the truth about what goes on. Very sad.
as firefighter in the illinois valley, I am proud to say that i am so glad those writing the nasting stupid things about the Peru Fire Department are not or will never be a member of our department. If the general public only knew how stupid these bloggers sound by bringing up things like the Peru fire chief being out of town or the assistant chief covering for him when he is and back and forth is bad. Thats what their job responsiblilty is. You insist they should not be allowd to go full time but insist they give up their jobs and lively hood for the part time pay at peru fire. You people idiots. you are bing strung along by another discruntled idiot who has no clue what it takes or the sacrafice of those positions. If you want someone every day then pay them. If you want them part time then allow them to make a living doing something else. This is nothing but the old guard lashing out about change. This department is no different than any other in the area or elswhere. Do a survey and find out for yourself. If the admistration changes they will make changes at the fire department level and those who take over will handle things the same way for the same price. Ha jokes on you people. Its the Don Baker mentality that is wrecking this town.
ANON 2;27 First of all, your English and spelling are atrocious. Next, can you tell us who refuses to allow the fire chief full time employment? Surely you know it would have to be an administrative decision and not one made by the general public. And, who is stopping them from holding down a full time job - no one that I am aware of. As far the assistant chief goes if indeed his neck is in a brace and he is indeed being paid to go to fires this is wrong, wrong, wrong. I personally feel it's the lack of leadership and communication that is "wrecking this town".
@ 2:27 , that's exactly what we're all taking about. You Peru fireman just don't get it. Your power trips as Liberty running the department is over. You should have no say over who joins our towns department. When someone wants to apply to the department you fireman decide if they get hired. Your ex fireman and liberty members tell us how it is. Not only that when someone applies now you fireman interview them. Then you decide if they get a chance to help their community. When King was President of Liberty a female applied and never even got an interview. What training do you guys have to interview and hire someone. That's why we have an HR person. This boys club that you have needs to stop. Us citizens will stop donating to Liberty all together untill someone starts taking charge and you guys worry more about helping your town them getting paid for parades. Alot of us wish Perez was not a member of the department so maybe he could fix things and stop the corruption. But we understand his dilemma and not wanting to get kicked off for speaking out. Too bad noone else there can make the right choices. At least we can always count on you guys responding when there is a call, if not only wanting to get paid.
Anon 2:27 , first off this town can't afford a full-time chief and doesn't need one. We can't even make the guys we have now do anything to earn their pay. Why aren't the hydrants getting tested anymore? 2 years back you guys were whinning that our insurance would go up if you weren't allowed to go out and leave the station empty so you could do the hydrants and then it all stopped. What did you figure out actual work was hard and stopped? Secondly why do you guys decide who is hired? That's illegal. Alot of discrimination and illegal practices go on when your men's club is allowed to discriminate and hire your buddies. We have a system in place that supposedly hires legally and non discriminatively. The truth hurts when us common folk find out your secrets. If the assistant chief Is being paid while on leave and the chief knows about it and they cover each others back that's illegal too.
Recently the Department of Public Works has been rumored to make a illegal hiring since there was no advertised job openings published in the local area. Advidance of favoritism and illegal hiring was a big campaign promise of Mayor Harl in his campaign. To be quite frank it appears that it is much easier to promise and once elected forget than it is to take a chance of not being elected. But it must be remembered that upon being elected a history begins and accumulates as time goes on and incumbents are evaluated in elections upon this history. Elections are Peru's form of term limitation.Re-election is a open issue not a guarantee.
Why are only 4 guys on the pfd full time list? Who's buddies are these? Which one of these guys are already on the pfd part time? And if so how does it work, will they pick anyone or do they have to pick number one. Who is retiring and who is going to replace that person? I like this blog, but lets get some real answers this time! And why do city employees get overtime on saturdays? Thats crazy! Let avoid useless spending and encourage hard work during their 40 hour week huh?
WWGD(What would Gary do)Gary Ecles that is.I was on the Peru Fire Dpt. before that sliding garage door party was held to oust Gary as chief. I'll be honest " I didn't care for Gary because he was always on edge but every one of us were held accountable if we did something stupid or if we did nothing at all. "We all" cleaned trucks,had duties, and expected to show for calls.Gary ran a tight ship.Reading these blogs discussed me as i will always have a passion for that department.If chief duncan is in-fact reporting to the station or calls in a neck brace that is wrong! Gary never would have allowed for that to be a liability to the city.I would imagine if he trips and falls on scene the city of Peru would be held responsible.Rodney as Alderman should deal with this?, I agree-but perhaps he would need to resign first.Knowing R.A. and a few other members, if not most, would turn on him.Chief Jeff King is very well liked by most because of his friendship, being in the fire service is not like any other occupation, You need to trust who you are going into a burning structure with, sounds horrible but when a person has a grudge they look and wait for that FF to screw up so they can mock them and that is DANGEROUS This is a fact Peru has FF like that.I would recommend to the public that if true Duncan is reporting to calls and getting paid a letter must be sent to city officials asking for them to act to remove Duncan until released from the city doctor.A big city atty will have fun suing the city if they are turning a blind eye. Rodney-I'm sure you will read this,you are in a tough position but you better act.If anyone on that department can straighten it out, it's you! After-All Rodney, who down there has really helped you over the past several years do all of your public education? has the department stepped up to help you with your promise event this year? I spoke to CJ from Tonica FD and Peru gave you 2 firefighters for the crash extrication? What does that tell you Rodney? Step up as I knew you and do something about that place.
PFD Honorary (retired)
@7:59 , all your loyalty aside , I'm a taxpayer in Peru, and if it's true that this firefighter is injured and not supposed to be at calls cuz he's injured he should be on a leave of absence and his position should be filled by someone else while he's off. And if he's injured and getting paid for calls he should be arrested and charged with fraud or stealing. Of course this is the same guy that has two city vehicles in his driveway and noone is using either. This town is a disgrace! It sickens so many of us to see all this going on. By the way why did you leave the fire department. ?
Gary is honest and has alot of integrity. I loved working with him the little bit I did. He did run a tight ship. RA runs wild now and so do so many others. There is no budget on the department they buy whatever they want and ask noone. Gary was at every event for anyone and any business. Guys volunteered or where told to hit the road. Now noone besides a few do anything down there. There was no men's club and it was fair for all, not just the drinking clan.
People! These are very serious accusations regarding a very serious business. If things are truly this upset someone needs to take the bull by the horns and do something about this situation. It seems as though 2 of Peru's safety and life saving departments are in disarray and need to be investigated (PVAS & PFD) if indeed the suggested accusations are even remotely or possibly true. I would like to think (and surely hope) that things are not as bad as they appear.
9:45 PM
Just as an observer, it appears that the chain of command has been broken.
People- you need to flood Peru city hall and Atty.Generals office to investigate these accusations. Venting on this blog will make you all feel better but unless it's officially reported nothing will be done. The FFighter reporting to duty with approval is a big mistake on behalf of your city. His injury sounds to be more than a sprained finger. If intact a neck injury one minor jolt could paralyze him. That would set an early prosperous savings account for his family. I'm floored the city is ignoring this. That FF needs a written release from his position from your city personnel dpt. and not allowed to return. Are police officers allowed to report to duty with a brace?
And let's not FORGET Gary Eccles did the job as fire Chief/Marshall for a few thousand dollars less (07,08) than now after Mayor Harl started appointing the position to the fire chief now. And Gary Eccles was ALWAYS at fire calls as chief. Why such a pay difference for this position from 08 to 2010?? Gary Eccles built that department until the boy club came in. Sad but true. The above blogs say it all!!!!!!! In fact, I heard fire chief king was out of town AGAIN this last weekend with another fireman and his wife overnight. Did he sign out? Duncan in charge again? Or did Gary Eccles? Wow!
Sliding garage door parties to oust Gary Eccles. I assume that the now fire chief JK was in attendance. All anyone had to be is a fly on the wall the first
Wednesday of every month at Elle's after the monthly fire meetings to see and hear the clique. What a shame.
If our fire chief was out of town over this last weekend and our asst. fire chief was in town with neck injury. Who was in charge? Where have the alderman who are on the committee for fire/safety been?? When a
Person has an injury, it's called taking "a leave of absence.". Mismanagement and ignorance and
A blind eye. Also, insurance liability.
Anon 9:45 PVAS does not have the issues that you would hope to believe. The only issues is the constant rumor bloggers that want to create issues for the sake of advancing their own agenda. Like more pay for themselves or creating more full-time positions in the City of Peru. And now they have misguided elected puppets to sell the plan.
To Honorary firefighter (retired). Very well stated. Thank You for your service. By reading your blog in my opinion it validates alot in which others have blogged about our fire department regarding it's issues and what we taxpayers are being enlightened about. Someone needs to step up to the podium!!
First of all I have been getting numurous phone calls about the FD getting teared apart again on this blog. I must apologise as I do not read this anymore as no one has any facts other than hear say. My office door is wide open but I have yet to have any of these gutless bloggers come in and talk to me. I run this fire dept as well as any fire chief ever has.I should not have to defend my management tactics to bloggers who have no idea how a fire department is ran. Just remember, change happens every day,some people can not accept change so they come on social media sites like this and blast off that the FD is not managed properly or at the very least they are held accountable and then complain because they are. I am going to continue to run this FD in the manner it is, if anyone would like to talk to my face verses shoving a knife in my back I welcome that anytime as my door is open. Otherwise leave the FD out of your crosshairs as there are many great employees here protecting you and your property that should not be attacked by this blog. Just remember the very people you are attacking have always been there when you needed them.Second item I would like to address is the bloggers attacking me because I have a full time job. I average between 30 and 40 hours a week at the FD for a salary of $4100 Per year. So as you can see I have to have another job. Im not sure why the bloggers continue to complain about my time but I can asssure you I am at the FD when ever I am not working.The last Item I would like to clear up is I am like any one else I do get vacation time and I will use it where I see fit. No one in this city will tell me any different.So if you have any questions about the operation of this fire department I would hope you will call me or stop by as my door is wide open, not listen to a bunch of gutless bloggers that either cant accept change or have no idea what they are talking about.Chief King
Thank you Chief King for responding. I truly believe that this blog, and most people who participate on it, are looking for honest answers to honest questions. I know that because I am one of them. When things are exposed in a town the size of Peru we don't know whether their rumor or truth so we seek an answer from someone in the know. Sometimes we get an answer most times we're given the run around. Communication at council meetings is not always an easy or pleasant situation to seek answers to questions.
So now we know chief king reads the blog. I wonder how the Peru mayor would take his quote that no one within the city will tell him how to run the Peru FD.
Well Mr.King- that would be the city of peru's FD not yours. It sounds to me like you are controlled by government mentality. A town the size of Peru needs a chief that can be there. If you couldn't handle the duties and required time it takes with the current pay, you should have not accepted it unless you thought your buddy Rodney was going to make you full time. How was that position paid in the past? Did Gary Eccles receive the same chief salary? I would imagine you should become a fulltime fireman like The other 3 and then ask the mayor to appoint you. That would take your 4,000.00 closer to 80,000 or so. Correct?
$4,100' (really)? I thought salary was closer to $9,100. Stated a few months ago. Of course mr. king u also get paid for each call u are at. Also,'u get EXTRA pay forma committee you are on ($1,600)!! Amazing. You didn't mention that! How much Extra do you Chief King get
Paid for Fire Marshall. ??? ????? Tell the whole story since you are now talking. Since Jan.1. 2012 how many vacations have you been on and left your duties to others? ??? Thanks by the way for somewhat responding.
There ya have it straight from your Chief's mouth. He will continue to run it in the manner it is! Mr.King You know as well as these readers do that if I come to you as a FF from another department and tell you what I'm hearing on the street and seeing on this blog fits what I have witnessed your entire department would turn on us then what would we have? There is no question you are a great guy,you can manage a business with minimal to no employees that you supervise on a daily basis. But this is the Fire Service.We see that you hand over your obligations to a few on that department that want nothing more than to run it within their scope of power. (manipulation) There is not one department within a 3000 mile radius that would pass command to a chief officer with a neck brace? That is dangerous on his life and a risk to your city and entire department.This part is none of my business but it still baffles many of us about the pick up truck the city of peru purchased.Since it can't be used for what was intended maybe the city should use it within their street department.Just my thought.
Don't the 4 full time fire department /engineers have EMT certifications? Does our fire chief Jeff King? Chief Kings blog concerns me in regards to what he states he receives as salary. Also, note all the. "I's". 30-40 hours a week as chief would make him available 4-5 hours seven days a week with his door wide open. Many times a week I drive past the fire station between 4p.m.-10p.m. and the full time fd employee is there! Absolutely, we respect and appreciate our fire department and the fireman. As citizens and taxpayers that pay the salaries of any city department we have a RIGHT to have our concerns and questions answered. Mr. Fire Chief, don't forget you are a city employee. And when addressing us taxpayers and bloggers please do it in a respectful manner. Our fireman are well compensated for the job in which they do. Thank You
By the way Chief King - where is that new white truck the city purchased using tax payers money? No one seems to know where it is and what it is being used for.
Intriguing, why would Fire Chief King only mention $4,100? And not other wages? It sounds as if he wants us to believe he only receives $4,100 a year. Very questionable in my opinion. Does this seem strange to anyone else?
Chief King, no disrespect to you. However, maybe you should read these blogs. F.Y.I, All of Peru's City Departments have been blogged about in reference to their management and financial spendings and etc... So the fire
Department is a city Department and therefore shouldn't be treated any differently. These city departments are
Suppose to work for us, we don't work for them and get
A paycheck. Our taxes pay them!! Therefore all city department should have accountability to answer to us taxpayers. Needless to say the truths and possible rumors on these blogs, it does raise questions and we
just want the truth and answers . It's that simple.
4:38PM
I understand that the fire department and the police department have what is called basic EMT training.
They do not have paramedic training or advanced life support. There is only one I know who used to be on the Ottawa FD that had the skills but he feels that he would have to be retrained since it has been a number of years since they were used.
I am personally offended that Chief King chooses to denigrate the "gutless bloggers". Perhaps he needs to post the hours he is available for the public and to respectfully answer questions regarding the department. He is not all right and we are not all wrong.
Most people don't know a lot about how the FD is managed, how new firemen are chosen and by whom. What is the chain of command and how is that managed. Does seniority matter? What are the rules for responding to calls? He is a city employee, so his boss is? Does that person consult with him regularly about the department? Is the city atty involved in the FD?
I believe the city of Peru also pays for a command vehicle and it's expenses for our fire chief to drive around town. Did chief Kings blog make any reference to that perk?
Lois, you have always tried to be neutral in regards to those who blog and to the select few who have answered. And you have also tried to get verifications and answers to all questions regarding peru's city departments,when you could. The bloggers seem to care about our city and it's management thereof. In no way shape or form is any department head going to belittle me in their blog. I will always come back full force. I will not be intimidated and hopefully you (Lois) will never be either. Facts are facts. As far as EMT certified, that's interesting. Thank you ambulance service. You are there also when needed. And Lois, thank you for all your time and efforts.
Its questionable whether or not elected/appointed officials read this blog, therefore it is our responsibility to address matters at city council meetings. Imagine if this blog didn't exist.
This is my first time to blog although I do read these blogs often on all topics and issues and ascertain my own opinions. Now, I'm going to be a blogger. I pay my taxes. I was a little complexed with Fire Chief Jeff Kings blog. First off if I were an elected official, appointed position, city employee, committee person, etc.. I would WANT to read our forum to keep informed of what taxpayers are saying about our city. As a fire chief I would respond to questions with a tone that doesn't make one look superior. To not read blogs chief is like saying you don't care about citizens and taxpayers in Peru. My opinion from what Chief
King blogged is that he really does read blogs and possibly someone from the city told him to blog a response. Thank You to all involved taxpayers .
Our police officers are first responder certified, a level below basic EMT. In regards to the full time fireman who was a paramedic for Ottawa, its not a matter of "he feels he would have to be retrained", its a state requirement if you have not maintained a certain level of training. EMT basics, which the full timers are, and paramedics require different types of training.
4:38pm. The full timers are at the station for 24 hours, so you should see them there when you drive by, no matter what time.
Chief King IS a city employee but he IS NOT a full time city employee. He is a part time employee. If you want a fire chief with office hours, you best expect to pay for one. I'm not saying I agree with the accusations, however, right now they are just that. If in fact a member of the PFD has or had a medical issue, there is no way for an anonymous blogger to know if he was given a release by his doctor that was accepted by the city.
How arrogant of king! "His " department? And noone is going to tell him what to do.
THE FIRE DEPARTMENT MAY BE RAN BY YOU "FOR NOW " HOWEVER ITS OWNED BY THE TAXPAYERS OF PERU! We are your bosses and demand answers. Since the current administration is sitting on its hands and won't answer us this is open game for trying to get answers. Sorry if we ruffle your feathers but most of us don't stand for illegal activities in our town. And if the accusations spoke of here are true don't be surprised if the state comes to investigate Pfd and Liberty. Then I guarantee we'll get our answers.
The 3 full-time firefighters are only first responders . They are not Any type of EMT. One Full-time guy was an EMT but let it lapse because it wasn't needed since Peru has a separate ambulance service. That's the same reason the "old-timers" didn't take the emt class , because Peru has a separate ambulance service.
10:00pm, My mistake, you are correct. They are all First Responders, and not EMTs. I apologize.
9:11 Maybe this position isn't suitable for Jeff King then. Gary Ecles and other Chiefs in the past never had these sort of issues or complaining of the pay vs hours put in. I know this for a fact because I'm the honorary that spoke out earlier. If Mr.Duncun had a release from the city why didn't Chief King defend him and state that that Mr.Duncan is released to work? In my opinion Chief King made a huge mistake by displaying his arrogance on this blog. The FD is a city tax paying department and for a Part Time Chief to come on to a blog and publicly tell tax payers to mind their own business and "No One" will tell him how to operate "HIS Department" is a kick in the chops to the mayor and the entire city of Peru.
Not downplaying Mr. Ecles admirable and faithful service to his community and the PFD OR defending the manner in which Mr. King responded, but its my understanding that Mr. Ecles' full time job is as a fireman for the City. That would lend me to believe that he, obviously, was available more often when he was the chief of the department. Mr. King has a full time job in additon to his additional duties as fire chief, fire marshal, and co-esda director. Again, you can't expect full time service out of a part time position.
Does anybody know how many hours and class sessions is required to become an EMT which would mean certified? I wonder how many fire departments surrounding Peru have firefighters that are EMT certified? In large cities that have full time Fireman isn't it a requirement for the job(qualification) ? Just wondering.
Basic EMTs require around 200 hours of training between classroom, emergency room, and ride along with an ambulance. Paramedics require several hundred hours of classroom, hospital time in various departments, and ride along time including certain medical procedures. Many of the local FDs have trained basic EMTs and Paramedics such as Oglesby, Utica, and LaSalle, however they also run ambulances out of their fire departments. Many cities, but not all, require every firefighter to also be a paramedic. This enables them to rotate their personnel between the fire engine and ambulance, or arrive at the scene of a fire with just an engine and ambulance, and since everyone on scene is a firefighter, get straight to work. Not all cities have adopted this crosstrained philosophy. Some have straight fire and straight EMS.
Nobody said we expected full-time hours of fire chief. Gary Eccles is a full time fire department employee. When he was chief for many years he was always at fire calls, events, council meetings, etc... For less pay! And not on vacations ALL the time. For chief/marshall's pay. Peru got a bang for it's buck with Gary as chief. Chief Kings blog: he works 30-40 hrs. week at fd. How could that be with all vacations and asst. Chief covers. And $4,100! He failed to mention other salaries/compensation. Is he trustworthy with what he himself blogged? Chief King makes it seem by his blog that HE owns the fd, and he is above all.
Chief King, in agreement we all need vacations. However, you may be part owner of a business for your full time regular job where you can take vacations with that job anytime. That's great. Why did u take a Fire Chiefs position knowing that you would be vacationing OFTEN? And leaving your responsibilities to others? Ask yourself how often is peru's Asst. Fire Chief out of
Town vacationing. Volunteer fireman (paid per call) is different if they vacation all the time. But, as a fire chief, one should be available as much as possible. Nobody is against vacations but we taxpayers pay your salaries. If you Chief King were a firefighter and not the fire chief, this wouldn't be an issue!!!
I completely agree with 9:21! I am a tax payer in Peru an you work for us! We will get a New mayor an you will be out on your A$$! I will send my donation check to LaSalle Fire Dept!
What's interesting is that our Mayor Harl appointed our fire chief. Fire Chief King's full time regular job requires him to be out of town and also out of town over nights. Shouldn't Mayor Harl have asked about his full time job ? Knowing what it requires? Before making an appointment. In my opinion since Peru has has a volunteer fire department, it would make sense that our fire chief and asst. Fire
chief's full time job would be near Peru. Thanks to all our fireman for the service you have provided.
I think the really important issue is the manner in which this city chooses their Fire Chief. Is there a process that is followed? My understanding is that the current chief was chosen during a party of Liberty. This has never seemed appropriate and no one has ever told me what the proper procedure is to choose this most important position. In other words what is the protocol? This is all very disturbing.
I wonder If asst. Chief Duncan was driving one of peru's fire departments command vehicles when he went to and was at fire calls with neck brace on with apparently a neck injury. Something to think about. Getting paid? Liability?
Not a resident of Peru, but I do know a few things about city government and politics. Our government operates on the bases of each resident having an chance to speak. This can be done by either attending a meeting or contacting your local representive to voice your concern. When the representives hear an outcry from their constituents in large numbers they usually move on the issue and look for solutions. In most cases on a daily basis our elected officals usually hear different residents of a community complaining about something. Its when you get a large number of complaints that they start to realize there are issues that need attention. You have to wonder why these reported wrong doings at the Peru FD and the alleged mismanagment has not been front and center at any council meetings or committee meetings. Its because the elected officials know alot more about whats going on with the department and the real truth and not the nameless faceless comments on social media. You cannot manage an organization on information from a social media blog. They know that. So, It is my opionion and thats just what it is an opinion that a few unhappy employees who are pushing these issues. Why in the world would you think these unhappy employees are going to solve these problems by addressing issues on this blog? Did anyone reading this BS ever think about that? Why has there been no big showing of all these unhappy members show up at the council meeting and get media coverage? Because the media will ask questions to try and find the truth thats why. Most of these bloggers know they are not speaking the truth. Have the guts to step up to the plate and speak. Don`t give any excuses of why you cannot go public. You might be supprised how many would show up in support of Chief king and against the so called truthful bloggers. In talking with firefighters in the area, they like the chief from peru and how well they work with others. I can only guess by reading the local papers over the last couple of years who these negetive bloggers are. One or two former PFD members and members of the Peru Ambulance service who will do whatever they can to make sure PFD and the ambulance service never merge. Thats the forces at work here. They just cannot show their faces because their agenda will be revealed. The city hall door is open, the media is there, show up speak your piece or forever shut your mouth. Chief king has the right to lash out in frustration when he is constantly being ripped apart by this blog. If there is an issue the chief is allowed due process to defend his operation. He also has the right to face his accusers. That will never happen because these issues do not exist. Whoever operates this blog, why don`t you be the representive of these poor lost soles and march hand and hand to the city council meetings and speak? My guess. Won`t happen.
11:23 PM
My contacts are many in and out of the city government and I can tell you that turning up and complaining at city council meetings gets nothing done and we all know that. This is nothing our local media is interested in, no investigating reporting goes on and most citizens realize that.
I think I understand the inner workings of the city government here in Peru much better than you because I have made it my business to do exactly that.
@11:23 , you sure know alot ofwhats going on for not being a Peru resident. Sure nice of you to be one of the few to defend chief king. Us residents of Peru see what's going on. We have noticed all the so called false accusations and our eyes are open. You sound more like a Peru fire man more worried about someone ruffling your feathers than a taxpayer trying to save wasteful spending.
Well put Lois. 11:23 keep your thoughts to yourself since you dont know what you are talking about and dont live in the town. You can call,write letters,speak at council meetings but nothing will be done,the city and mayor just dont care. And as for the daily mistake newspaper,they only print what they want to or print what they are told to print. There are pictures of the aast. chief on facebook at a fire with no gear on and a neck brace. Now tell me thats not a liability? And the mayor was told of these pictures and did nothing about it, plus the asst. chief is getting paid for these fire calls. now if is collecting somekind of payment from work while hes off and getting paid to be at fire calls I think his insurance company should look into this.
I guess fire chief king saw fit to pay all those fireman to run spotlights and traffic control for concert for a cause. No approval needed by council? That's right we "gutless bloggers" paid them by paying our
PROPERTY TAXES. We never got financial reports for what this cost us. Amazing
As an assistant fire chief being at fire calls getting paid with a neck injury with a brace on, he himself should tale accountability. He (Duncan) had to know this was irresponsible and wrong. However was he again put in a position by the fire chief. A neck injury is not a joke. Chain of command? Why didn't Duncan (asst. Fire chief) take a leave of absence? Does anyone know how and where Duncans neck injury originated from? ??? How many times have other gotten paid and at calls when injured? I guess this is ok, because the fire chief sees fit for
It to be.
Fire Chief King, you didn't give an e-mail address where you can be contacted. Where's website with all information about fireman and their picture(use to be one). Regarding your blog: we don't expect you to put in full time hours at station. You said 30-40 hours a week at station where your doors wide open. That's 7 days, 5 hours each . Was that a typographical error on your part? Why would it be a problem for you to answer questions from us bloggers on this blog? Answer to all not just one on one with your
door wide open. Social media sites are a great way to communicate. TY
GOOD POINT 1:04, sounds very reasonable.
What's the citys policy in which an injured firefighter going to fire calls? I'm sure a police officer with a neck brace on wouldn't be riding around and patrolling our city.
I say it again. Show up at the meetings and voice your opinions. Run for office. State your case. The reason you do not speak in public is maybe what your saying is a lie and your worried about a lawsuit. The court system has a funny way of bringing facts to light. Hmmmmmmm. Or maybe you understand that the reporters will get both sides of the story. What are you afraid of?
5:11PM
And I can tell you do not live in Peru and have not attended many if any council meetings. It's not like we are mute but we pick our battles when the time is right. As for the reporter remark, you are not from the Illinois Valley!
We gather our information over a period of time but most things eventually surface.
Apparently some or all of you have M.D. after your name and have diagnosed Mr. Duncan from rumors and innuendo. Have you taken into account that an ACTUAL doctor can have someone wear a neckbrace for something as simple as a neck sprain? WOW! Sounds SERIOUS!!!! Better be confined to the bed!!! Seriously people. I would think that HIS or the CITY'S doctor would be in the position to tell him what he is allowed to do. Take into account that he's a supervisor and not the guy who actually breaks down doors and puts out the fire, and as long as the doctor's release allows him to do what he's doing and the city accepts it, there's no more liability there than anybody else.
The city has a doctor? Didn't know that ANON 7;34.
7:34 Obviously you are not in the fire service so please don't talk Liability. quick scenario, let's say a FF goes down and the chief standing there in a neck brace see's this take place while all other ff are occupied. would you expect the commanding officer to radio in and wait to see who shows up first to help? or would you want that chief to be able to make that possible rescue? or how about that door that is being broken down creates a draft then explosion? A chief in that condition could not be of any assistance if needed. A chief is not just a radio holder. ask Chief of LASalle if he would just hold the radio or stand there watching a fellow FF suffer? Chief Duncan is not suitable for command!! Besides Duncan had surgery on his neck so, no slight sprain.
I would like to present a different view on this latest topic. I am not a line officer, firefighter only of your neighboring town. First, Peru has always had some of the best equipment in the area...but, you need to rely on good people to operate the equipment all the time. Peru does have some good firefighters. Second, when our town requires mutual aid I must admit that some of us worry as to who from Peru might show. Chief King & Asst Chief Duncan are great people, but you do have a few questionable line officers. We never know who might be on that piece of equipment when it pulls up on the scene. Third, I believe your dept was the hosting dept of the recent Operation Promise...not a very strong support of this program. How many particated during the preparation? Not many. There are other issues I could present to this site, but will stop here. Finally, Chief King watch your back. You have a group of guys that are your best friend for now...but when your term is over they will turn on you just the way they always have on the prior chiefs. You have a few line officers and firefighters that are in the game for now...just wait until the final whistle blows. Sorry, just have witnessed it several times over the last several years, even decades. Please understand that my intent is not to slam PFD. They have some good firefighters...and they use to have alot of great firefighters that many depts envied. Times change...I guess.
Wow 123 comments and 99% are about the fire department...way to stay on topic.
I find it funny how everybody on this blog likes to rip the Peru FD apart. Even when these same men that you are sitting here drilling into the ground may have helped you or one of your loved one at some point in time. Stop and think about what you are actually saying. Does it make sense to you to belittle the police dept? It doesn't make sense to me to belittle anyone that you may need help from in the future. I guess what I'm trying to say is that accidents DO happen everyday. If you where involved in an accident wouldn't you want the help from the very people you belittle on this blog? I'm betting you would. Furthermore, I'm betting the not a single one of you has any idea what it takes to run a FD. Let alone put out a fire or do an extracation. So why don't you all just stop! I like Chief Kings comment. Why don't you people walk into his office and confront the matter face to face with the man. After the Westclox fire, a lot of the comments on this blog where negative! That's funny because I don't think any of you people spent countless hours down there. Away from your loved one. It's sad that the people you might depend upon someday are the one that you bash. You people arent too smart!!!!!!
1:34 It's obvious you are a Peru FF. how a reader can tell? Your arrogance!......"You people aren't to smart"sounds like something your chief would say to the citizens of Peru.
Look you guys,
The Gary Eccles vs. Jeff King debate has gone on long enough. Gary was a great chief. He was, and still is, the most qualified
fireman on the department. He ran a tight ship because he was worried about the fire department's image in the public eye.
Because of this, he made many enemies on the department, particularly the younger guys, who didn't want to follow so many rules.
These young guys banded together and voted in Jeff King because they knew he wouldn't be around enough to enforce the rules.
They planned this all out just because a few of them showed up THREE HOURS LATE to help Gary clean the station for the
Christmas party, and he yelled at them because he had to do all the work by himself. So, they organized the party in the garage,
invited everyone except Gary, and persuaded them to vote for Jeff as chief. There you go, that's what happened.
You guys know Jeff, he's not Gary, but he's the chief the firemen wanted. Now they have to deal with the situation they created.
I hope they have learned something from their choices, but it's time for us to move on. Please.
P.S: Don't feel sorry for Gary. Now that he's not chief, he has spent the last few years reconnecting with his family and friends,
which, I'm sure we all agree, is the best thing for him to do, given his current situation. Lets focus on restoring Peru to its former
glory, and leave the department drama behind us.
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