The Reporter covers Miller, Morgan and Camden County in Central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks and is published once per week on Wednesdays.

Published September 2, 2026

Southwest Fire Protection District addresses criticism

MACKS CREEK – The Southwest Camden County Fire Protection District released an “open letter” to the community regarding the recent Gathering of the Juggalos.

Apparently they were accused by a public official (who was not named) of being complicit with the event.

Their entire “open letter” is below.

“Recently, a public official made comment that the southwest Camden County fire protection district “collaborated” or was “complicit” with the organizers of the recent gathering of the Juggalos’s held at Mother Nature’s riverfront retreat.

It is not the place of a fire protection district to take a political stance on the nature or morality of any event, nor will we. 

Several months ago, SWFPD was contacted by the production company, who outlined the nature and anticipated attendance of the event.  Recognizing the impact on the community and the district, we as an organization deemed it necessary to undergo intense planning and preparation for the event due to the fact that it would be taking place completely within our political subdivision. 

To be quite honest, it would be irresponsible and reckless on our part to NOT plan for that impact as it was our responsibility regardless.

This was a monumental task for our volunteer workforce to provide EMS and fire protection services. 

To say the least, I am extremely proud and grateful for the efforts put forth by our EMTs, firefighters and paramedics who covered the event.

Additionally, our mutual aid partners throughout the Lake region who stepped up, providing equipment, manpower, and logistic support making it possible.

To infer that the board of directors, command staff or volunteer employees of the Fire district “collaborated” with any organization to bring the event to our community is quite frankly dishonest and complete fiction.  The fact that this came from an elected official, makes it even more ridiculous.

To be clear, I have nothing but a sense of deep pride, humility, and gratefulness to all that helped us manage what was perhaps the most challenging event that has ever taken place within our Fire district.

Sincerely,
John Scheper, MS CFO
Fire Chief
Southwest Camden County FPD

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