(PIONEER) - Pioneer Mayor Edward Kidston sent a message to his constituents following a mass firefighter walkout. Firefighters who resigned are detailing why they left.
The Village Reporter shared an April 16th message from Kidston to Pioneer residents stating, "Simply put, you remain protected." Kidston said Williams County EMS and a 24/7 first responder unit are covering medical calls. Fire calls are still being dispatched through Pioneer Fire Department, now operating with three certified members, with help from neighboring departments.
Firefighters who resigned in protest on April 13th posted a Facebook message thanking the community and explaining their decision. Firefighters cited what they described as "years of abuse, disrespect, and degrading comments," from Kidston, and said a recent demotion was "the final straw." The group said those who quit have provided a combined 281 years of service to the village.
Kidston said the village will rebuild the department, but it will take time.
He has not responded to additional media requests about next steps.