Firefighters were seen handing out this flier in support of ambulance fees. (Photo: TBD Staff)

A Montgomery County judge today dismissed a challenge by a volunteer firefighter association claiming the county was engaging in illegal electioneering in support of the ambulance fee referendum.

Montgomery County Circuit Court Judge Robert Greenberg ruled that the suit was filed too late (there is a 10-day statute) and that there was no evidence to show the county's actions would sway voters.

But, interestingly, Greenberg did say that a flier pushing for ambulance fees "seeks to intimidate voters."

The Montgomery County Volunteer Fire-Rescue Association complained about that flier in their lawsuit.

But why didn't they file the lawsuit sooner? Attorney John Bentivoglio, representing the volunteers, said "we felt much more solid" about filing an official complaint after uniformed paid firefighters were seen out at early voting centers and advocating for the referendum.

Bentivoglio said he was disappointed with the ruling but did point out Greenberg's harsh characterization of the county's tactics, including Greenberg saying the county was "crying poverty" and yet spending money to promote passage on Question A.

Meanwhile across town today, county officials were out in full force, along with a volunteer paramedic, advocating for ambulance fees. And, yes, county communications' staff members sent out numerous press releases ahead of the press conference.