East County Fire District: John Simmons

Year of birth: 1953

Place of birth: Cape Girardeau

Spouse, children's names: Christine spouse. Melissa Rose daughter

Occupation: Electrician

Employer: Saint Francis Medical Center

Businesses owned, all or part: Previous owner of Grass Roots BMW

Previous offices held or sought: No elected offices. Served on the board for Cape Senior Center.

What is the most important issue facing the East County Fire District?: A smooth transistion into the five member board.

What in your background or education makes you qualified for this office?: Twelve years as a firefighter for East County Fire District. Achieved the rank of Captain with the fire department. I owned a business that sold new vehicles. There are many simularities to being on a board. I had to be responcible for large sums of money. I dealt with payroll, insurance, state and federal regulations. Very similar to what the fire board does. A good understanding of the fire district and the job of firefighter.

Why are you better qualified than your opponents?: I have many experiances that required me to get along well with others. I also helped with and watched this fire district grow to a top notch fire department. I understand and apreciate the countless hours spent by the firefighters in this district. I understand the equipment that they use and the equipment needs of the department.