East Central Reporter

Last week, reports emerged about a fireman in the Sherman Fire Protection District potentially using the district's facilities for personal business activities. An anonymous tip revealed that the fireman was advertising car and truck wash and detailing services, priced at $200 each.

The advertising images, which circulated online, were reportedly taken inside the fire district building, featuring a wet floor and a fire truck nearby. The observations led to speculation that the fireman might have been using the fire district's open bay for his private business operations.

This prompted a formal request for information. On April 28, 2025, a Freedom of Information Act request was submitted to the district. The request seeks documents, if they exist, from the district's board or fire chief granting approval or setting policies that would permit the use of district facilities and resources for car washes or detailing services. According to the timeline for such requests, the district has until May 5, 2025, to respond.

Following the inquiry, it was noticed that the fireman had removed all related photos and posts from his Facebook page, suggesting he might have been informed about the ongoing investigation.

The situation raises questions about the use of public resources. "Actions such as this are an improper use of public funds, property, or credit – which violates Article VIII, Section 1(a) of the Illinois Constitution because it serves no public purpose," it was commented.

The community hopes that trustees will address and rectify any misuse of public facilities in a timely manner.