A low-simmering dispute between the union and management of the Crook County Fire and Rescue district has sunk morale, according to filings by both sides in a hearing procedure working through the Oregon Employee Relations Board.
“It definitely isn’t a positive work environment,” said Chad Grogan, president of the Crook County Firefighters Association.
Chief Matt Smith agrees the mood is bad.
A response to the union filed by the district claims “illegitimate” rumors are causing firefighters to hesitate to act in emergency situations and around the stations.
In February, the union filed a complaint against Smith and the district with the state relations board, alleging numerous instances of anti-union activity. Last month, a hearing was held at the district’s station in Prineville.