Controversy continues to surround the Shoshone Fire District. Last night in a public meeting, people gathered to discuss the employment of Fire Chief Steve Stock.

Heated words, and frustrated comments come from Shoshone residents as they question the employment of Stock. In what the fire board calls an inappropriate meeting earlier, Stock was dismissed, along with Training Captain Dean Richardson. That decision was reversed at this meeting.

Still, many, like Lillian “Lee” Ross, who resigned when she heard the news, feel the damage has been done. She said, "Other personnel who are no longer involved with the before mentioned fire district include Tom Alexander, Raymond Alexander, Jim Eaton, and Mark Kime. James Bennett has taken an indefinite leave of absence, and prefers to stay neutral."

In a prepared statement by Stock, Ross and Richardson, it says,
"The people responsible for the termination are also ultimately responsible for the slander, deprivation of character, sexual harassment, discrimination, and general harassment imposed upon Lee Ross, Steve Stock, and Dean Richardson."

As day turned into night, much of the open house was spent with the board discussing facts behind closed doors, leaving a buzzing room full of unanswered questions.

The meeting adjourned at 8:20 pm. As of right now, the board has decided not to take any action, and to instead, discuss the matter with Stock and the personnel.

Commissioner Ellis Gooch says there are good reasons for the attempted termination of Stock, but right now, they just can't be made public.

This leaves many who attended the meeting with more questions than answers.