Regarding the decision to privatize the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport fire-EMS service: It should be noted that the International Association of Fire Fighters No. 2546 is a public-service entity. The Rural/Metro employees, however, will be working for a for-profit, private company.
Rural/Metro has a track record nationwide of going to a community where fire and EMS services are a function of local governments and promising to save the community money. That is, until the for-profit company decides to raise its rates. Guess what? Private companies equal no cost control. Mark my words, Sarasota will see.
IAFF professionals, who have protected the airport, were done a great wrong, as was anyone using this facility. Now the public’s safety depends on the low bid. ...
Full Story: The low bid for public safety