It is an honor to have the privilege of writing this message. The firefighters and administrative staff of the City of Seminole Fire Rescue Department are dedicated to providing the citizens of our community with the finest, most cost effective emergency services possible. My admiration for the firefighters and staff that serve you extends beyond my aptitude to adequately describe their efforts, abilities and sacrifices as they protect life and property in the Seminole community.

Your Fire Rescue Department provides fire suppression, emergency medical services (EMS), and code enforcement to the 24-square mile Seminole Fire Control District as well as providing fire suppression service to three neighboring communities. Our administrative staff supports our firefighters' efforts to provide the best possible service at the least possible cost.

The City of Seminole Fire Rescue Department operates some of the most modern fire apparatus and equipment in the region. Our firefighters strive to maintain the apparatus in an always-ready status. They truly understand the investment made by the taxpayers to provide them with the finest available equipment to do their jobs in the most efficient and effective manner. Our firefighters are prepared to mitigate emergency situations from small-scale incidents to a community-wide disaster.

The Fire Rescue Department has worked diligently over the past several years to control cost while continuing to provide excellent service. Although Department related costs increased sharply during the 1990s, fiscal restraint and direction from the City's Administration have helped to control costs. The Department's mileage rate for fiscal year 2007/2008 is 1.985 mils, which is 1.272 mils less than in fiscal year 1989/1990.

My family and I have lived in the Seminole community since 1967. I have been a part of the Seminole Fire Department since 1971 when I became a volunteer (originally with the Seminole Park Volunteer Fire Department) at Seminole Station 30 on Starkey Road. My family and I truly enjoy living in the Seminole area and believe the City of Seminole and this community has a tremendous future.

If you should ever encounter any of our personnel or have the need for our services, I am confident that you will be treated with respect and professionalism. Your comments and suggestions about our service delivery are always welcome. Your Fire Rescue Department is here to serve you to the best of our abilities. Please let us know how we are doing.

Respectfully submitted

Daniel H. Graves

Daniel H. Graves,
Fire Chief

E-mail Chief Graves