Allegations of a hostile work environment have shone a negative light on Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue in the last several months, but it's a light the Chief of the Department said is unfair and inaccurate. Tuesday, Chief Jeffrey Hoyle is defending his administration after about 12 protesters with the Suncoast Firefighters and Paramedics Union lined the front lawn of Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue Station in Bradenton last week. Some of their signs said "Hostile Workplace" and "Stop harassing firefighters."
In response to these allegations, Chief Hoyle took the time to break down the many improvements he's made to this fire department since taking over five years ago. He also had eight firefighters to back him.
"I think it's a phenomenal place to work," said Aron Kaloostian, a firefighter who's worked at Cedar Hammock for more than five years.