To the editor:

It is not in the taxpayers’ best interest to gut the firefighters and paramedics pension and disability benefits.

No adverse tax consequences result in maintaining the existing firefighter and paramedic pension and disability benefits.

(Board of Directors Treasurer) Mrs. (Bonnie) Stegman had the audacity to advise to a full and hostile audience that she thought the board was raising benefits. This is an insult to the intelligence of the entire fire service and to the public it serves.

The board, by a 2-to-1 majority, is acting in violation of the Missouri Constitution.

This is exactly why the firefighters and paramedics are going to court.

No responsible, self-respecting newspaper attacks free and protected First Amendment speech, correct public disclosure by elected or appointed officials or public access to the courts for wrongdoing.

John H. Goffstein

attorney at law

Chris Francis, president

Mehlville Local 1889

of the International Association

of Firefighters