Vedauwoo Fire Department Members Announce Resignations

Most of the members of the Vedauwoo Volunteer Fire Department announced their resignations over the weekend.

According to a post on the agency's Facebook page [see below], the resignations were prompted by what the firefighters say were the unjustifed suspensions of the Chief and Assistant Chief by officials with Albany County Fire District #1.

They also claim that fire district officials didn't investigate harassment allegations. They also say they were not allowed to respond to fires in their area.

Here is the letter that was posted on the Facebook page:

Meanwhile, Albany County Fire District#1 posted the following on it's website:

Since mid-February of this year, in response to concerns and complaints, the Albany County Fire District #1 (District) Board has been working to ensure that all Departments, personnel and responses on behalf of the District maintain and promote the highest level of safety and professionalism. 

The ACFD1 Central Department has been responding to all calls within the Vedauwoo Volunteer Fire Department (VVFD) area of response since that time and continues to do so. VVFD has not been providing any fire suppression or incident response and will not do so until further notice. 

Since mid-February, the Board has been trying to engage in management and leadership collaborative practices that restore the trust and confidence of our partners, collaborators and taxpayers that excellent fire protection and suppression leadership, responses and resources will be provided across the District by all Departments. Any additional information regarding personnel or legal matters will not be entertained or answered by the District.