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Political maneuvering heats up Mo. county ambulance board

Resignation of board member leads to allegations of union influence, threats, and back-room deals

By Susan Weich
The St. Louis Posy-Dispatch

ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo. — The resignation of a controversial member of the county ambulance district has led to allegations of union influence, threats and back-room deals on the normally quiet board.

The turmoil came to a head Tuesday when Brenda Reyes was appointed to replace Dan McLaughlin in a 3-1 vote. At that meeting, one board member walked out, saying board business was being held hostage. Another said she was threatened before the meeting.

Board member Vivian Kaesser said a district paramedic called her and said if she voted for Reyes, Kaesser would face opposition in the April election. The union would back a candidate against her.

Full story: Kaesser: “I don’t get blackmailed, I don’t stand for it”