Colorado Local Finds Political Success

November 24, 2009 – For the first time, the Steamboat Springs, CO Local 4472 fire fighters became politically active, endorsing three candidates for City Council – incumbent Cari Hermacinski and newcomers Kenny Reisman and Kyle Pietras. Both Hermacinski and Reisman were elected.

It wasn’t until the Steamboat Springs fire fighters joined the IAFF that they felt free to become politically active. “The City prohibits its employees from publically endorsing a candidate or political issue, but we are allowed to do so in our capacity as union members,” says Local 4472 President Michael Arce.

Arce also reports that all 20 members participated in the campaign process as they sent out flyers and other campaign communications.

Also of note, Hermacinski has since been appointed as City Council president.