In just two months, the Wantagh Fire District will hold elections for the position of fire commissioner. Unfortunately, not many residents usually turn out to vote and only a few hundred votes can determine the winner. Most voters are fire department members and their families. Despite a 9.39 percent increase in the district's 2006 budget, and a budget which is the fourth highest on Long Island (as per Newsday's recent series), residents are somewhat apathetic. Now is the time to be heard.

This election however, is very unique and extremely important. It is unique in that there are two openings for commissioner. The long-serving incumbent is not seeking re-election and my wife recently said enough is enough and prematurely resigned. On the other hand, it is important in that somebody has to bring transparency and fiscal responsibility to a spend-happy board of commissioners.

It is my hope that prospective candidates consist of either a strong-willed independent female; someone familiar with emergency service such as a nurse or professional firefighter, or an experienced business/financial person. Electing another insider (fire department member), unless that person pledges to be a good steward of taxpayers' money, would almost guarantee that business will continue as usual.

When my wife became the first female ever to serve the district as commissioner, she relied heavily on the residents of the community. She understood what some commissioners have problems understanding a fire commissioner has a vital responsibility to serve and protect the community, as well as the department membership, in a way that minimizes waste and unnecessary spending. It is an issue of wasteful, unnecessary spending that all prospective candidates agree that they will attend no convention or seminar that is not located in New York State. Those who comply with this, may not ensure that they are the best candidate, but it will be some evidence that they want the position to do the job, and not for the perks. It will also show that they're serious about controlling spending.

Jim Johnston