LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Feeling used
Editor: The Graton Fire Department has once again misled the
public. I was appalled on Wednesday morning (Sept. 15) when KZST
announced, “It was a landslide! The noon whistle will stay.” This
“whistle” is a World War II Air Raid Siren, which is absolutely
unnecessary for public safety. (All surrounding fire departments
have stopped using their sirens without any compromise to public
safety.)
On April 28, 2009, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors
directed GFD to “… form a Citizens Advisory Committee to work on
technology to replace the siren and to discuss how use of the siren
can be reduced in the interim …” Before the committee was even
formed, GFD sent out a postcard to some residents of the district
asking their opinion. GFD then called this a “vote.”
No “vote” was held. This is not a popularity contest. The Board
of Supervisors instructed GFD to stop the unnecessary use of the
siren immediately and to look at ways to stop its use completely.
So, GFD, do what you are told! Stop unnecessary use of the siren
today and honestly look for ways to completely discontinue its
use.
And, sorry KZST — looks like you got used.
B. Jacobs
Sebastopol