Editor,

After winning my campaign for South Whidbey Fire/EMS Board Commissioner, I was sworn in earlier this month by then-Commissioner Kennon Simmons, who passed the torch to me.

After serving 20 years first as a firefighter, he then served 18 more as a fire commissioner choosing to retire after 38 years. Kennon served our community long and well, and we will miss him.

Now I have big shoes to fill, and I welcome the opportunity. As your new Position 2 commissioner, I will work to assure that the district maintains the required number of firefighters, EMTs, the equipment they need and the support staff necessary to see it that all runs smoothly.

Significant work lies ahead for South Whidbey Fire/EMS Board of Commissioners, and I welcome it. Most important is a probable levy election next August to provide the district with sufficient funds to keep 911 response times at present levels or better.

Thank you to all who cast a vote for me. I am honored and will endeavor to merit your ongoing confidence as we take on this and other important issues.

Mike Noblet

Clinton