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I was very discouraged when I got no recognition from the Press Journal when I improved this communities service by such a large margin. The writer who did the article "locked out" in the lifestyles front page section called me for an opposing opinion. I told him everything I have mentioned here, he left it all out and put in Gerald Hiebert from Indian River Locks says you should use your motor clubs more. When I called to ask why, he said,"It's a good program and they opened my . car for free." I pointed out that I thought it was slander to put my quote in the paper in the same article where he said that "Locksmiths proved unreliable" for rotation and didn't mention that my company wasn't here at that time. None of the other locksmiths would talk to the press journal. When asked why they said: "We're unwilling to be dragged through the mud again." I guess it's not just my story that is been omitted by the Press Journal. I promised everyone I wouldn't use their names in this but its generally said that they would probably be giving 24 hour service if not for the program. In the communities interest, 24 hour locksmith service is a must. Without having to wait for a locksmith from another county. Indian River is growing and we are not ready. We must eliminate the high liability and needless waste of the program and give it back to free enterprise, where it belongs. Otherwise whose car will be stranded at the beach on Saturday evening or Sunday with no motorclub or local locksmiths available. Who's store will be left unlocked after a break in waiting to pay high prices from outside the county. Will it be yours or somebody you know? Yes it will. And I'm sure it aheady has been in the past. This program that brings goodwill to the sheriffs department. It this truly a service to the community. I don't think the county or its officials realize it might not be thousands of dollars we pay out but millions. As a taxpayer we say its not worth the cost. I've heard that the county has been re-evaluating the program because of the complaints. I ask that these facts be put in with those and push it over the edge. Is it something that can be voted on or do we need a petition? I guess I'm running out of time and air Thank you for your time. Are there any questions I can answer for you. In response to questions of the Commissioners, Undersheriff James Davis advised he knew of no damage complaints received for work performed by the volunteers. He stated that Mr. Hiebert has been a help to the Sheriff's Office in the program and has even taken some calls free. An earlier locksmith rotation system had fallen apart in 1993 because locksmiths would not respond to certain areas in the county, particularly on weekends, holidays or late at night, so the Sheriffs Office got back into the program. Last year, they responded to over 3,000 calls. A waiver is signed by the caller which is mainly used for statistical purposes. He was aware of one claim for damages in the 10 years they have had the program. The volunteers have an opportunity to practice with equipment at the Sheriff's Office, have excellent tools, and take pride in their work. He also mentioned that not everyone has membership in an auto club nor can they afford the locksmith's standard charge of $30. MAY 259 1999 37 BOOK FAGr -1 g