RENO AIRPORT FIRE FIGHTERS INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS 390 KIRMAN AVENUE * RENO, NEVADA 89502-1705 '75) 383-9053 © FAX (775) 358-7212 od LOCAL 2955} Media Release 04/25/2019 (03:06 pm ‘The Reno Airport Fire Fighters Association (RAFFA) did not release the letter addressed to the Airport Authority Board, and we were surprised to learn that it had been made public when we were contacted by the media for comment. Although we are dismayed and disappointed by the accusations made by Brian Kulpin, we stand by the statements and concerns brought to light in the letter, which was written to the Board after nearly a year of formal attempts to work with the RTAA were unsuccessful. In response to Mr. Kulpin’s public comments, which were presumably made in an effort to distract the ‘media and the public from the real issues discussed in the letter, RAFFA in no way made reference to ‘wages or additional hours. Contract negotiations do not even take place for another two years. The letter was sent to the Board in an effort to elevate serious safety issues that have been raised by RAFFA since the death of a pilot last May, but had still not been addressed. We are happy to report that, since the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority Board received our letter, the issues discussed, with the exception of dispatch, have begun to be addressed. We were informed by News 4 last night that a mutual aid agreement has been signed, and we look forward to being notified by RTA management about the agreement. Additionally, RAFFA and the airport have tentatively agreed to resolve two of the outstanding grievances. We have since been informed that the Airport Emergency Plan (AEP) is being updated by the Fire Chief and the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) are being updated by the Deputy Fire Chief. We appreciate your concern and the public’s oversight as we continue to improve upon safety for the sake of our department and all travelers who visit the Reno- Tahoe Airport. Sincerely, Reno Airport Fire Fighters Association