Mr. Larry Morrissey, Mayor VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
City of Rockford April 2nd, 2009
425 East State Street
Rockford, Illinois 61104
SUBJECT: Photographing of 413 Members
The Union is concerned for the safety of the members of City Fire Fire Fighters Union Local 413 and the difficulties being created as they provide services to the citizens of Rockford.
In my first letter to you dated March 28, 2009, after explaining the situation, I informed you I expected the photographing, following, harassing of the fire fighters to cease immediately yet it appears to continue as recent as 4/1/2009.
Mr. Hayes stated there is confusion in the administration as it pertains to persons in city marked vehicles perceived to be monitoring fire department activities.
Couple this confusion with the disparaging and threatening remarks made to the fire fighters by a high ranking person in your campaign the night of the Coronado debate I believe there is justification for great concern.
Mr. Hayes stated the city was unaware of any certified activities but speculated it could be an antennae study by the Information Technology (IT) department of the City of Rockford. I have requested a statement from the IT Director for clarification of the study and a cooperative review of any and all pictures acquired. As of this writing I have received no response. If this referenced study is in progress and I am expected to accept the explanation provided I am compelled to request you provide me the location of city owned or operated towers on Logli’s Supermarket on Rockton and at Leving’s Lake.
For the benefit of the City of Rockford and the citizens, the Fire Department and the fire fighters this harassing, disruptive action should cease immediately. It is counterproductive, threatening and makes it even more difficult to provide fire department services while on emergency calls, non-emergency calls for service and during training exercises.
If there is a problem discerned by your administration regarding the fire service it should be communicated to me as President of the Fire Fighters Union versus the undue pressure these types of gorilla tactics are creating.
You personally have authority and control over city workers and campaign workers. Barring a reasonable justification for these actions I once again respectfully request that you direct city workers and or campaign workers to cease these actions immediately.
I would ask that you immediately respond to me regarding this matter.
E.J. Dilonardo, President