Dear Editor:

When I was growing up, there was a ubiquitous bumper sticker that read “Question Authority.” It was not intended to create rebellion or disrespect. Instead, it was a teaching tool. It taught my generation to question those in authority because they don’t always make the right decisions or have your best interests at heart. I was reminded of this when I heard about the termination of Slatington Volunteer Fire Company Chief Austin Berger.

I met this gentleman when he started with the fire company in 2010. Since then he has dedicated his time, energy and passion to learning all he could about firefighting and serving our community. So I had to question how this decision was formed. If neighboring fire companies had concerns, it should have been expressed publicly so this community could “question authority.”

As an elected official, the chairman of the Safety Committee could have held a special meeting with Chief Berger and any outside entities to “question authority.” But he did not.

Now, as a result of this illogical action, we are losing more volunteer firefighters. Today, I received a copy of the resignation letter of Captain Justin Frable. Captain Frable has an extensive training history which he eloquently lists in this letter. How do you duplicate that in another volunteer? You cannot!

I also “question the authority” of Slatington Borough Council. When did we start allowing outside entities to decide actions pertaining to this community?

I “question the authority” of the four fire chiefs who endorsed this negative letter but never advised their own companies of such an action. Not only were their members unaware of such a letter, they would not have supported such an action.

I “question authority” of the Borough Council regarding the safety of this community when you have fired the Chief, the Captain has resigned and others are also threatening to resign. Did you think this through?

People “question authority” and demand answers. It is your civic duty.

Kris Burek

Slatington