The 2010 WSCFF Legislative Conference kicked off on Monday morning, and the 264 members in attendance hit the ground running.  WSCFF President Kelly Fox welcomed the attending leaders from over 80 local unions and introduced the WSCFF Executive Board.

In a showing of an ongoing cooperative relationship, Washington Fire Chiefs (WFC) President Wayne Senter addressed the group, shared the agenda of the WFC, and pledged their support for the measures generated by the LEOFF Plan 2 Retirement Board and endorsed by the WSCFF.  “I once sat in this very room where you are sitting now, as one of you,” said Senter.  “It is through this type of education that I have become a better leader in the fire service.”  Before he left, he wished the members good luck in their meetings with their elected officials.

The members were also honored to be introduced by Mark Johnston (#452) to a remarkable new legislator from Southwest Washington, Representative Tim Probst (D-17), who welcomed the opportunity to speak to “ … the highly respected firefighters of this state.  You provide a great service to our communities and I for one wish to thank you.”  Tim has become a solid advocate for firefighters in Washington State as well as for unionized workers in the labor movement.

This served as a prelude to an inspiring address by Governor Chris Gregoire.  In her talk with the firefighters she discussed the recent tragedy in Lakewood.  “These last few months have been the toughest time of my tenure as Governor,” she said.  She went on to pledge her support for benefits to provide for the surviving families of first responders killed in the line of duty.  She departed to a standing ovation as she thanked the members of the WSCFF for what they do to keep our citizens safe.

Between speakers, the members received issue briefings from the WSCFF Legislative team and LEOFF Plan 2 Retirement Board Executive Director Steve Nelsen in preparation for meetings with their legislators.

The evening wrapped up with the WSCFF Legislative Reception where legislators, staff and friends joined the firefighters for social time and follow up to meetings from the day.  The Seattle Pipes and Drums entertained the crowd with two sets, and reports have indicated that everyone had an enjoyable evening.

Day two included a debriefing by the Legislative team; a visit from one of our own, Representative Kevin Van De Wege (Firefighter, Clallam County 3 and LD-24); and a stimulating, provocative report from our IAFF 7th District Vice President Ricky Walsh.

Finally, on behalf of the entire membership of the WSCFF, our ceaseless thanks go out to the incredible and capable WSCFF staff:  Helen Kramer, Debbie Guillot and Lisa Thompson.  Without them, the 2010 Legislative Conference would not have been the successful event that it was! We look forward to seeing you April 20 – 22 in Bremerton at the 2010 IAFF/WSCFF Educational Seminar.