Sedalia Firefighters Local 103 Endorse First Ward Councilman Oldham

In the race for Sedalia City Council, Sedalia Firefighters Local 103 have endorsed First Ward Councilman Tom Oldham:

"The Sedalia Professional Firefighters (IAFF Local 103) are proud to announce their unanimous endorsement of Tom Oldham for Sedalia First Ward Councilman.
Councilman Oldham has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to public safety, making him the clear choice to advocate for the well-being of Sedalia’s citizens and firefighters.
With a strong and proven record of supporting Sedalia’s firefighters, Councilman Oldham has been a steadfast champion for necessary advancements in fire protection. His dedication to enhancing public safety is evident in his actions, which have directly contributed to making Sedalia safer. This includes:
• Advocating for Firefighter Health & Safety – Lobbied at the State Capitol in Jefferson City to secure occupational cancer benefits for firefighters, ensuring they receive the necessary protections for job-related illnesses.
• Supporting Firefighter Rights – Voted YES on a historic collective bargaining agreement that addressed critical concerns from Local 103, improving working conditions and safety measures.
• Strengthening Emergency Response – Voted YES on additional staffing to deploy another fire apparatus, helping to alleviate understaffing and improve response times.
• Opposing Non Safety-Related Taxation – Voted NO on Sedalia’s proposed road tax, which failed to include provisions for public safety. Local 103 firmly opposes additional taxation that does not directly support fire and emergency services in the city of Sedalia. Sedalia remains one of the largest cities in Missouri without a dedicated public safety tax.
• Planning for the City’s Growth – Stood as a YES vote on adding a third fire station. As Sedalia expands, the need for adequate fire coverage grows, and Councilman Oldham remains committed to ensuring the city’s emergency services keep pace with its development.
An endorsement from Local 103 is a serious matter, requiring a demonstrated history of commitment to fire safety and a strategic vision for the future of fire protection.
“We appreciate all candidates who engaged with us and urge them to prioritize fire safety as Sedalia experiences rapid growth,” said the IAFF Local 103 Executive Board.
The Sedalia Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 103, have proudly represented the city’s professional firefighters since 1918. With over a century of dedication, we remain committed to advocating for the safety of our members and the community we serve.
For additional information, please contact Local 103 via email at sedalialocal103@gmail.com.
– International Association of Firefighters Local 103 Executive Board"

Below is one of their yard signs promoting Oldham:

Oldham issued the following statement on Local 103's endorsement:

"Eight candidates are running for City Council, and to receive the sole endorsement from some of the most trusted and respected group of individuals in our community means the world to me. To say I feel honored would be an understatement. I love our community! It’s growing, it’s thriving and Sedalians are accomplishing great things. I appreciate that I am seen as the clear choice for advocating for the Sedalia’s citizens!"

The City Council election takes place April 8.