Eliminating the paramedic engine in our community will result in increased response times and compromise the first and most critical minutes of medical emergencies, which are the majority of service calls. As the most eastern fire station within the City boundary, our fire station cannot rely on backup from all directions like those in other parts of the City.

Each summer, Ascot Hills Park, which is at the center of our heart and home catches fire nearly every year. Unlike last year when our firefighters had full resources, we are unconvinced that our hard won community asset will remain protected. Further, the majority of homes in our community are located in hillside areas and in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. This factor in combination with reduced service causes us to fear that our homes will not remain protected either.

It has take years for our neighborhood to acquire a paramedic engine, and we will work harder to protect it. Reduced service is not acceptable because all citizens' lives are valuable.

We need to send the message that other communities like ours will soon face disastrous consequences too. We have contacted our local neighborhood organizations and invited them to join our protest in front of Fire Station No. 16 on Saturday, January 30, 2010 from 10-12 pm.

We implore our leadership, including but not limited to, the Fire Department Board of Commissioners, Councilmember Huizar, and Mayor Vilaraigosa to ensure our life and safety.

We look forward to working with you on a solution to this crisis.

Very Sincerely Yours,

Luanna Allard
President, on behalf of the Hillside Village Property Owners Association, Inc.

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