A grass-roots group is continuing to show public support for Anderson Fire Chief Joe Piccinini, who was placed on administrative leave with pay May 12 while an independent investigator, former Anderson Police Chief Neil Purcell, Jr., checks on management practices within the Anderson Fire Protection District.
Piccinini confirmed Friday that Purcell had scheduled a meeting Monday, June 8, with the fire chief and his Sacramento attorney to get Piccinini’s responses to questions raised during the investigation that has lasted more than three weeks.
A packet of 68 individually signed letters, each one addressed to the fire district’s board of directors, was delivered May 28 to the Valley Post by members of a group Concerned Citizens for Fair Local Government. A second packet, this time containing 43 additional letters, was delivered by a group member on June 4.
Tina Beldon, a spokeswoman for the 12-person group, said they formed “about three weeks ago” to serve as a watchdog committee over local politicians “who have been self-serving for far too long.”
Beldon declined to specifically identify the politicians to whom she was referring but did not deny that it could be the same three long-time politicians who serve on both the Anderson City Council and the Anderson Fire Protection District’s board of directors.
They include Mayor Butch Schaefer, Vice Mayor Norma Comnick and former Mayor Keith Webster.
Other letters to the editor have also been received and comments critical of the fire district’s board have been posted on the local newspaper’s Web site, www.andersonvalleypost.com.
The signed letters carry the signatures of some fairly notable Anderson business leaders and long-time community members including, among others, Janet Applegarth-Yarbrough, wife of Anderson City Council member James Yarbrough. She also is the activities coordinator at Regency Place, a residential facility for approximately 80 seniors.
“I am writing in support of Chief Joe Piccinini. I have known him since his arrival in Anderson. From what I have seen and heard, he performs his duties well and is one of those wonderful assets we have in our Anderson community,” reads the opening sentences of Applegarth-Yarbrough’s letter.
Apparently as a result of the letter writing campaign, Applegarth-Yarbrough was questioned in late May by Purcell in relation to one allegation that Fire Chief Joe Piccinini was trying to orchestrate an election of sympathetic board candidates later this fall, she said.
Christian J. Hughes, manager of Regency Place, writes an even stronger letter to the fire board.
“I have read the accusations and quite frankly I find them absurd and preposterous. I believe the slandering of Joe’s character has stemmed from a select few individuals that our (sic) unhappy with the restructuring that has been made to the fire department in his short time as Chief,” Hughes’ letter states in small part.
Other names on the letters include Chris Workman, chief executive officer of the Anderson District Fair; Vicky Di Prima of Keenan Pool Service in Anderson; and Corky Keenan, who sits on the Anderson Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors as well as the Anderson Public Library board, Anderson Explodes! board of directors and the Anderson Historical Society and Museum’s board, among others.
In a letter addressed to Purcell, Vicki Di Prima writes, “Chief Piccinini was hired to make changes and get the fire station up to standard. People don’t like changes, especially when it involves doing more work, etc. It’s possible the firemen want things the way they used to be.”
Fire district board president Keith Webster said Friday, May 29, that he had received two packets of the letters, which he read and then turned over to investigator Purcell.
Last week, the same grassroots watchdog group paid to insert a yellow half-sheet flyer in all copies of the Valley Post and zoned editions of the Record Searchlight destined for South County addresses. The same flyer was also included in the free total market coverage shopper, the Post Advisor, that were distributed Friday, June 5, to nearly all non-subscribers of both newspapers, said Bill Dawson, general manager of the Valley Post.
Following a survey of its board members, the Anderson Fire Protection District decided not to place a special tax or benefit assessment on the upcoming November ballot chairman Keith Webster said.
Scripps Interactive Newspapers Group
Comments » 33
norcalaction writes:
Every day in the state of California-- a state, county, municipal, or special/independent district employee is accused of wrong doing. Agencies either conduct an internal investigation or hire an outside investigator to conduct an independent impartial investigation. Outside investigators are those who have no knowledge of the local politics, the local politicians, or any of the personnel involved in the questioning. One must question first why an internal investigation was not conducted; but more importantly, why a person who has been employed by and played in the political playpen by those requesting the investigation, has been selected. This action in no way lends itself to a fair independent impartial investigation. It will be interesting to see what the rendered judgment is after it is reviewed by a court of law.
ForAnderson writes:
I agree,norcalaction. While I believe Purcell is a fair and honest man, one wonders why he was hired for this investigation when his roots grow deep into Anderson. Then again, perhaps this is his opportunity to "clean up Anderson government" like he cleaned up the old Oaks Apartments...seems everyone else was afraid to do it...he was not and he succeeded where others failed. Ousting those who think they control Anderson would be a blessing to this community. One also wonders why the fire board did not first conduct an internal investigation. Then again, with one city councilman who is also on the fire board already being investigated for wrong doing, perhaps it was felt that bringing in another investigator was the best way to handle this. Why would the "already being investigated" investigate the man he has accused? One has to wonder. As unfortunate as it is to have this whole mess going on, perhaps this will be the catalyst that ends the "good ol' boy/girl system in Anderson government. Too bad it comes at the cost of this heartache for the Fire Chief and his family. My thoughts and prayers are with them and the former police chief (Purcell) as this unfolds. Concerned Citizens unite and end this travesty of justice.
sickofit writes:
Purcell is not "deep rooted" in Anderson. He was a hired-gun from SoCal who happened to live in Montana. He was a hired-gun who did not pay into Social Security and needed quarters. In Anderson he got them. He was a hired gun who had VERY close communication with internal people, including Comnick prior to coming to save the City from John Sammis. By the way, he was the one who suggested Sammis for the job in the first place after "investigation". Now why would you trust him to do it again. Some say he was a long-time "mentor" of Webb, when in reality, he, and the city, had to settle on Webb. Anyone curious about the fact that his right hand girl when at APD is the current secretary for the fire chief. Wonder if he's wondering how her buddy is now investigating him. And what about that trip in a city fire truck by Comnick to visit Purcell in Montana? Anyone ever wonder why the cops could not enforce the big-rig parking laws in town? Wonder if it had to do with the fact Comnick at the time sold truckers insurance? Hope this effort does some good. Perhaps the City Attorney needs to wake up and see what's going on for real, and perhaps the new City Manager (Dana?) will not continue to tolerate this stuff. I doubt it.
snooperanderson writes:
Just to let everyone know at last count 130 letters of support have been sent rather than the 68 as previously reported.
ForAnderson writes:
I hope ALL of these letters are reaching the investigator. If they are going directly to the fire board members, I would worry about that. How easy would it be to say, "Letters? What letters? Never received such letters!" Does the fire board have its' own mailing address or are these going to board members addresses? Are these going to the local newspaper? 130 letters is a huge number for the Anderson area. That is possibly 130 family units. Hopefully both the board and the investigator will take note. If some people hope to be re-elected to certain positions they had better be listening to the people sending these letters of support. The Anderson community seems to be tired of the "good ol' boy-business as usual" system. I agree with this new grass roots support group. Change is coming and Anderson will be a better place because of it.
tsky57 writes:
No way is this a fair and impartial investigation. I know for a fact that the "investigator" is guilty of many unethical practices. I have seen Neil Purcell drink and drive his police issue car, I know for a fact that he is not a loyal husband. Talk about living in a glass house!! sheesh.
I can only assume that the letters are all coming from voters because the "unholy trinity" of Comnick, Webster and Schaefer needs to be eliminated.
AccountabilityinAnderson writes:
How can Schaefer truly represent either the city council or fire board when all his strings are pulled by the puppet master Comnick? When the puppet master has been recalled and Schaefer has no one to spoon-feed him, how will he cope? He won't plain and simple, but then he'll have more time for his NASCAR "hobby" which keeps him from attending council/fire board meetings anyway. He wants to run for country supervisor but with no support from the voters how can that happen.
ConcernedAndersonCitizens writes:
We are here, make no mistake and we're speaking directly to you members of the fire board/council. We're watching, waiting and ready to ask the tough questions...yes, even those grand jury worthy ones.
We believe in the Chief. He has accomplished some very real and positive things for Anderson and has so much more planned. His heart and soul are truly here and all he has wanted to do has been to better his department for the benefit of the community. There is a reason why his badge is pinned exactly over his heart, and that is because he takes pride in being part of the brother and sisterhood of such a noble profession.
ForAnderson writes:
Won't it be interesting when we see the results of the fire board being investigated by the Shasta County Grand Jury? Talk about dirty laundry!! They just thought they had power. Their reign in Anderson is over. We, as concerned citizens, are tired of the "good ol' boys" club. Seeing their practice of "you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours" is sickening and so 50's. Perhaps the chairman of the fireboard should remember that he is also being investigated for financial misconduct. What goes around, comes around. How will the three fire board/city council persons feel when the shoe is on the other foot and their dirty laundry is hung for all to see (and smell). Believe me, it won't be fun, pretty or odorless. Only then will they realize what they are putting Chief Piccinini through. Come on, people! Common sense tells us all that an internal investigation by the fire board would have saved tons of money....tally up the cost of airfare from Montana or wherever the investigator lives,(and that at a last minute price) 3-4 weeks at the Gaia hotel, meals, use of city car (gas is so cheap these days) and city office, cost to send Chief of Police to pick him up at the Sac. airport...and return him there when this is over.....hmmmmm.....here we are needing money for basic necessities to keep our homes and businesses safe, and they spend money like it is water! How about an investigator who had NO ties to Anderson? Fair is fair. This board would do well to remember they can be recalled.
ForAnderson writes:
Should the Grand Jury be asked to investigate the Anderson Fire District Board? Citizens-scroll to the bottom of the first page on this website to vote. Vote with a resounding YES.
andersonsnooper360 writes:
Well, I have been doing some digging and I read in a previous Valley Post the profile done on Chief Piccinini and he states that his favorite movie is the Wizard of Oz...I think I see some similarities.
Who is that behind the curtain controlling the city? I wonder who is without a brain, (Webster), and who is missing courage, (Schaefer), and who oh who could be without a heart, (Comnick). Just an observation.
I'll bet the Chief didn't know he was coming to the land of Oz, (Bizzaro Land).
Check it out Toto you are so not in Oklahoma anymore.
Beware of flying monkeys on Thursday night.
AndersonMom writes:
One can only hope the Scarecrow and the Lion find their brains and courage before Thursday night so we can keep somebody who is actually helping this town instead of abusing it. Of course, in my mind I wasn't thinking of the three heroes...I was thinking more the witch, the flying monkey, and the Winkie (witch's guard).
ForAnderson writes:
What is that old saying...it's a good thing elephants don't fly? Well, monkeys will be just as bad. I would hate to be a fire board member when they fly over. Beware, fire board, your end is near. Anderson has the magic hat and we are making our wishes known. Remember Shakespeare's famous line- "out, out, (....) spot.." Anderson is saying, "out, out, good ol' boy system--your time is up and you are gone." The Grand Jury & voters will soon prove that your tenure is over and you will be cast out. Your control is slipping from your grasp like something flushed down a toilet. No pun intended.
Treachery_Runs_Deep writes:
In case many of you are not aware, the Anderson Fire Protection District board of directors will listen to public comments on the Chief at 7 p.m., June 11, Thursday, before going into closed session. We're not sure how much they will allow, but we encourage all those tired of what has been transpiring to show up and support Chief Piccinini. I know this is short notice, perhaps intentionally on their part. I also wonder what tricks the Unholy Trinity will have up their sleeves. I smell a trap.
Tiredofit writes:
Such short notice had to be intentional. It appears to me that the "unholy trinity" already have their minds made up anyway. If the heartless one wants our Chief out, she will get him out come hell or high water. She has a record of getting what she wants. But that is about to end. Concerned Citizens rise up and end this nonsense.
andersonsnooper360 writes:
Right you are AndersonMom...let's all bring a bottle of water tonight and "accidentally" toss a bit the witches way and see what happens. Imagine the smell of a melting rat.
snooperanderson writes:
I posted only once so far, sitting back just watching and waiting to see what would happen. But at this point this is stupid. But as the old saying goes "stupid is as stupid does". The one question I do have like so many others is, why someone like Diane Davis or Chuck Lebak (sp) of Redding who do these types of investigations were not asked to conduct this particular one.
You’re right about the short notice. So short a notice that they couldn’t wait for it to be published in the Valley Post, the real Anderson newspaper. Who wants to bet that Purcell doesn’t even have his “already guilty no matter what report” complete yet and that tonight’s meeting will have to be continued. Comnick’s puppet strings are more like a noose. Cruise ships are always needing good ventriloquist acts so I think she could take her show on the road. At least she would be employed and out of our town along with her other two sidekicks. Maybe Tom Brown will pay for this cruise just like the other one for Comnick. Conflict of interest anyone? I bet their association is so twisted and interlaced it’s going to take a grand jury to unravel.
Tiredofit writes:
Ding, dong, the witch is dead....at least her shenanigans are soon to be dead. She has controlled this town and some of the people in it for far too long. I did, at one time, think that the other two council persons who also serve on the fire board were smarter than this....nothing worse than men who are dancing puppets for the lady puppet master. All three of them had better take notice of the unrest in this city. Voters are tired of all this...we want a change and soon!!
They should all resign while they can before they are forced out by the Grand Jury Investigation. One of them may be forced out by the state because of his "forgotten" financial report...yeah right!! The real "Mr. Anderson" would roll over in his grave if he saw what was happening here.
tsky57 writes:
For whom the bell tolls indeed Tiredofit. If a politician falls in Anderson will she make a noise?
Can't wait to find out.
McGruffTheCrimeDog writes:
I believe that it is time to Recall Comnick. The petition needs to be started ASAP and get her out of the office. One vote on the council changes the political power being wielded by the unholy trinity. I call for an investigation into the actions of Comnick, Webster, and Schaffer. I also call for an investigation into Purcell's involvement in this whole mess. Anderson its time to stand up for the good and the right. I hope that our newest members of the council will also acknowledge that it is time for the people of Anderson to elect their mayor. We are tired of the trinity taking turns and using their power as a billy club. We want changes in our community, we demand changes in our community and we are the ones who hire the council. Lets get it going Anderson.
ForAnderson writes:
Right you are, McGruff!! It will be easy to get enough signatures to recall Comnick. I think only a recall will actually get through to her. The people are sick and tired of the shenanigans of the supposed queen mother and her minions(Webster & Schaeffer). I heard that at tonight's meeting, Webster read a long litany of reasons why the fire board is not to blame for this whole mess....if that is the case he is now trying to present, he is way too late. We know that it takes a brainless person to actually believe that an anonymous letter should start such an investigation. I would bet my life savings (if I still had any) on the fact that Comnick is behind that "anonymous" letter. As usual, she finds others to do her dirty work. Would an anonymous letter hold up in court? Of course not!!! If the board is blameless, then why didn't they first investigate these charges themselves? I understand that Chief Piccinini has received wonderful periodic reviews up until a short time ago. Isn't it strange that all of a sudden he is blasted with a laundry list of charges? This time Comnick has overstepped her master puppeteering bounds. The strings are being cut by concerned citizens and her puppets cannot control their behavior without her---evidenced,I hear, by one puppet's unorthodox behavior at the meeting tonight. I was told that he was angry, red faced and beligerently ranting to those gathered there to speak, before anyone was allowed to say anything. Did he think he could intimidate those gathered to speak? Interesting... methinks he and Webster both doth protest too much. Voters remember this!! As to the firefighters who are currently standing against the Chief---most of you guys need to get in shape...thus the reason why Chief wanted you to work out...for your own safety and those of us you should protect. You should be willing to constantly better yourselves so you can be more productive at your jobs. The rest of us who work do try to be better at what we do, whether it is taking classes, staying fit, whatever. I would remind you as someone said earlier.....you can be replaced...or some of you with "dunlap's disease" (my stomach done lapped over my belt-Andy)could die of a heart attack while fighting a fire. In fact, with the cost of this fiasco of an investigation, you might well find yourselves out of a job soon. I am sure the district's coffers will be heavily depleted by this investigation....last minute plane tickets,(for another Comnick puppet), Gaia Hotel, food, car, office, secretaries to type it all...and the list goes on....ad nauseum. Citizens beware....we may have to fight our own fires if this stuff continues.
Treachery_Runs_Deep writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Red_Stilettos writes:
Tonight was chaos. None of the board seemed sure of themselves which is not what you wish to project to your voters. I myself felt like I had been dropped in the middle of a Looney Tunes cartoon, except instead of being funny it was very disturbing.
Did anyone really believe the tripe about the fire board having nothing to do with the anonymous letter? It has to be Comnick's doing, it’s certainly her MO. Perhaps she spoke privately to a willing firefighter and began the ball rolling with certain promises that someday he could become chief. A dangerous game to play is it not?
Also don’t forget that Marsha Kelly is also a “close” friend of Comnick’s. Marsha is trying hard to stay out of the fray at least in public, but with Comnick yanking her chain she will vote the way she’s told.
As “For Anderson” posted above, I have to agree with you about some of the firefighters being out of shape. Good thing none of them sneezed or a flying button could have killed someone in the audience. The nerve of Chief Piccinini wanting them to be in shape to better their own lives or perform their job better.
Andersonnative writes:
Maybe if you are going to personally attack someone on here you should get their last name correct. You people should be careful those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. I was born and raised here and think that Norma Comnick has done wonders for out community like Walmart and Redding Kenworth, though I am sure with a name like Red Stilettos you don't shop at Walmart, my final statement would be are you even from Anderson?
Red_Stilettos writes:
My Dear Andersonnative,
Let's talk about Ms. Comnick. Her supposed Kenworth building that the Anderson city budget was increased for based on its expected revenues, became a bust and is the reason why several city employees were laid off last year because the projected income did not materialize. The real Kenworth business elected to move outside the city of Anderson, and Anderson does not receive any tax revenues. Secondly, WalMart was coming to this town regardless of Comnick. More credit for the WalMart coup goes to Dana Shigley and Scott Morgan. Besides WalMart does not pick its towns because of local politicians, it locates in areas that will generate the greatest revenues for WalMart.
And I would venture to guess that with Comnick no longer on the council screwing up local politics, such as what is happening right now, more businesses would be apt to come to the city of Anderson. But if you’re a business and reading about our fair city and see and hear nothing but crooked politicians, why would you want to bring your business here let alone your family?
Another thing, dear Andersonnative, let me quote your post, “Comnick has done wonders for out community.” Out community? My dear, Comnick would have nothing to do with outing anything, she detests gays, haven’t you heard? Why do you think John Sammis got such a good retirement?
Yes, I am from Anderson and I do shop at WalMart, but frequent higher end shops as I'm a professional businesswoman. I do love awesome shoes though!
snooperanderson writes:
Kenworth? The building still stands empty and after all how much money did the City of Anderson put into the improvements (roads, water lines, pump stations, etc.) for that building to be built. Seems as though it has actually been a cost to us, the taxpayers. Another Comnick wonder!
BlueSuedeShoes writes:
Red Stilettos answer above is excellent. What is perceived(and claimed)as Comnick's work for Anderson is merely that-a perception she puts out there for those who do not know better. Why else would she have remained in office this long? It is common knowledge that her question asking Sammis about his sexual identity got him a healthy retirement, thanks to the city's insurance. I wonder what she has cost the city during her reign of terror?
Tiredofit writes:
It will be interesting to watch the "unholy trinity" at work during the council meeting Tuesday night. Now that they know we are on to them,they may be absent or unable to do their jobs, especially the mayor. I would hope he would be ashamed to show his face at the meeting, much less on TV. Then again, perhaps we will hear a public apology for his treatment of a concerned citizen at the Fire Board Meeting on Thursday. Perhaps he will have his Mommy there to hold his hand through it all.
AndersonMom writes:
Andersonnative, you are right is ONE area. "Those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones." Politicians are the ones who live in glass houses because their words and actions are subject to every voter in the district. I hope your thoughts help you take a deeper look at your friend Norma. After all, you are still believing in the good she did by bringing Kenworth to Anderson when it never even happened. Makes me wonder what other good things you believe she has done that are actually imaginary as well. Please get the facts before getting back on your soap box.
MarriedtoaCUB writes:
AndersonMom - Very good point.
Treachery_Runs_Deep writes:
A Poem for the Unholy Trinity
Alone in your created hell
Your souls burning, afraid to tell
The schemes you’ve made
And all you’ve betrayed.
How much longer will you pretend
The public’s will you’ve had to bend
Every whim and evil deed
Let’s listen to you for mercy plead.
Treachery_Runs_Deep writes:
Seriously, I think I'm just plain sick and tired of what goes on with the fire board and just don't get why they haven't been asked to resign. Butch is a raving maniac, Keith skitters around like a scared rabbit and Norma, well what really can you say about her except that she and her sidekick/mentor Tom Brown rule our city. In this day and age politicians need to be accountable to their voters and do what they want. We don't put them in office for them to do as they please, it's to do as we want. They forget government is a democracy, it's not a tyranny in the U.S. I'm a voter, I'm proud to be an American but I can tell you from the depths of my heart I'm ashamed of our board/council right now.
AndersonMom writes:
I have spent hours on various websites trying to find where it is legal for a citizen (aka retired police officer who doesn't have a private investigator's license) to have done this type of investigation. I can't find anything that says it is legal, only that PI's and police can do such investigations. Anybody else having any luck?
I hope McGruff follows through with that petition to recall, I'd sign in a heartbeat.
I will be anxious to see how things play out in the next couple of weeks until the board gives their decision. If they are wise they will put a hold on this and leave it for the elected Fire Board. Unfortunately, given the track record, I honestly don't see that happening. One thing that is becoming more and more obvious; however, is that the reign is done. Too many people have grown tired from the Good Ol' Boys club happening in Anderson. Every time we get good people in positions to make great changes, those who live on power focus on their destruction. It's time Yarbrough and Hunt have a real team to work with them on the City Council. It's time we have a real Fire Board who focus on good things not on hear say (aka an anonymous letter) that would be thrown out of any court.
If a business owner fired an employee due to an anonymous letter, they could be sued for wrongful termination. If police/DA tried to get a warrant for someone's arrest based on an anonymous letter, it would never be allowed. Why, then, is this being done?
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