Submitted by Susan Hardee Steger
November 28, 2015 11:59 p.m.
The International Association of Fire Fighters Union President James Tucker announced Local 2836 is endorsing Roy G. Smith’s candidacy for the Fernandina Beach City Commission. Smith is challenging incumbent Pat K. Gass in the December 8 runoff election.
According to Tucker, “Mr. Smith has been a staunch supporter of the fire department. He’s been instrumental in our much needed leadership change and continues to be a valuable advocate for our membership and our City. Commissioner Gass has a clearly defined history of disdain and contempt for the Fernandina Beach Fire Department, on one occasion calling for the immediate termination of the majority of the City’s firefighters and the use of Nassau County Fire Rescue to fill the void. Shortly thereafter she was heartbroken over the layoff of a handful of port employees. It is our opinion that Commissioner Gass has been a detriment to the progress of Fernandina Beach. Mr. Smith has a clear vision of progress that is shared by the Organized Firefighters of Fernandina Beach. We urge the residents to come out December 8th and show your support for your firefighters by voting for Roy G Smith.”