John Rigney says he’s certified in just about everything related to fire rescue, which is one of the reasons he said he should be elected to his fourth term at West Manatee Fire Rescue.
Rigney, 52, is a fire inspector at North River Fire District in Palmetto. He worked as a firefighter at the Longboat Key Fire Department for 24 years and served almost four years for in Bradenton Fire Department.
Rigney, who is looking for his seventh and eight years as a WMFR commissioner, wants to keep doing what he says is his expertise – all things related to fire service.
“I enjoy working with the department,” Rigney said. “I’ve been in the fire service since 1980, and I feel comfortable in knowing all the aspects of fire service.”
Rigney said he is certified as a firefighter EMT, fire inspector, fire officer, pump operator, fire instructor and has a fire science degree.
He also has owned Rigney Plumbing for 27 years.
Rigney said being open minded is just one of the aspects that makes for overseeing an effective fire department.
“You have to have a vision of the future, but you also have to make sure you’re not outspending your budgets and make sure you just keep up on the latest statutes out there.”
Rigney said he does not think much change is necessary at WMFR.
“Mainly I want to make sure things keep moving forward,” Rigney said. “We’ve accomplished a lot the last six years. We’re working on making sure to stay with the public education program, and training programs, so they’re not getting cut. That way guys can still go out there and do the right thing with the public.”
Rigney said it all comes down to protecting the public.
“I enjoy keeping our district within the budget,” he said, “and providing the best service we can.”
John Rigney is likely to be one of the most ethical gentlemen I’ve had the pleasure to know and work with. His years of experience in the fire service and in the private sector will continue to add value to the leadership of West Manatee Fire Rescue.
Your last name “Rigney” is interesting. I am a Digney. My family name is from county Down Ireland. My great Grandfather immigrated to NYC in 1850. Knowing that names were misspelled or changed at Castle Garden I am interested in family genealogy and trying to find my roots.
Lois Digney Huntington