December Board Meeting Marks Big Changes in the Lakeside Fire District

Lakeside Administration Building: The December 14th meeting of the Lakeside Fire Board brought with it some major changes to the District. Before a "standing room only" crowd the District bid farewell to two long time Board members, welcomed two new Board members, and celebrated the career of Fire Engineer Steve Thompson.

The Board room was filled to capacity with members of the community in attendance.

Departing Board Members

Rick Smith

Long time Lakeside resident, and 20 year member of the Lakeside Fire Board, Rick Smith has seen many changes within the Lakeside Fire District. Originally seated as a Board member in December of 1990, Rick Smith has played a vital role in the evolution of the Lakeside Fire District.

Rick Smith

Fire Chief Andy Parr presents Director Smith with a plaque of appreciation for 20 years of dedicated service

Ken Coyle

Ken has had a long relationship with the community of Lakeside. Originally serving the citizens as a Firefighter-Paramedic, Ken continued that tradition of service when he was elected to a Board position in December of 2002. Also a long time Lakeside resident, Ken brought a deep knowledge of the emergency services to his position.

Ken Coyle

Fire Chief Andy Parr present Director Coyle with his plaque of appreciation. Both Chief Parr, and Director Coyle, once worked together as Firefighter-Paramedics in the early 1980's

New Board Members

Susan Conniry

Local Lakeside activist Susan Conniry was sworn into office at the December meeting. Susan has called Lakeside home since 1989.

Jon Lorenz

Jon Lorenz was sworn into office at the December meeting. An eight year resident of Lakeside, Jon continues to serve our country in the US Navy. Currently working in the Naval Expeditionary Command and Control Unit (NECC), Jon is celebrating his 14th year in the armed services.

New Lakeside Board Members Jon Lorenz and Susan Conniry are sworn in at the meeting.

Fire Engineer Steve Thompson Retires

Fire Chief Andy Parr congratulates Steve on 29 years of dedicated service to the community.

After 29 years of service to the community, Fire Engineer Steve Thompson has retired from the Lakeside Fire Protection District. Steve plans to spend more time with his family here in the Santee area. Steve was last assigned to E26s (Blossom Valley Station) on A-Division.

Submitted By: Captain Mark Grow, Lakeside Fire District