By Ryan Dunn
The Blade, Toledo, Ohio
TOLEDO, Ohio — The new president of Toledo’s rank-and-file firefighter union Thursday set an optimistic tone for future disputes with department officials.
Pvt. Jeff Koenigseker said he will work to find common ground regarding internal problems between Toledo Firefighters Local 92 and Chief Luis Santiago. The two sides intend to continue strong service, and public fights distract residents from that goal.
“I think my focus is more on resolution than arguing, and we have to have the public believe that they are safe,” Mr. Koenigseker said.
Union members chose Mr. Koenigseker, 51, of Toledo after a four-candidate primary and ensuing election. He was sworn in to a three-year term Dec. 9. Mr. Koenigseker spent about eight years on the union’s executive board, most recently as secretary and treasurer.
He said he welcomes input from all members and residents.
“While I’m advocating for my membership, I’m also a Toledoan, and my family lives in Toledo,” he said.
His predecessor, Capt. Jeff Romstadt, declined to pursue another term. Mr. Romstadt missed time spent with family because of the position’s time commitment, Mr. Koenigseker said.
Mr. Koenigseker has served for 23 years in the Toledo Fire and Rescue Department. He previously spent four years in the Marine Corps, and later worked as a hospital aide at the former Medical College of Ohio, now the University of Toledo Medical Center.
He sought this role to help move the union forward and address other disputes. Low staffing levels and a record number of fire runs are wearing out members, he said.
Mr. Koenigseker takes over the position after the union’s members and leadership have voiced their displeasure with Chief Santiago.
Mr. Romstadt repeatedly criticized the chief’s record and asked for his resignation. In May, more than 87 percent (319 of 365 voting firefighters) cast a no-confidence ballot against the chief.
The union represents about 490 privates, lieutenants, and captains.
When asked if he will continue the demands for resignation, Mr. Koenigseker cited the chief’s refusal to leave and Mayor Paula Hicks-Hudson’s support.
“As I see it, we have a system to work under, and that’s the system we’ll work with,” he said.
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