The Newport Plain Talk

NEWPORT-Discussions about upcoming Newport Fire Department vacancies were brought before city council during Wednesday evening's called meeting of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.

City Administrator Scott Collins asked council if he needed to set up interviews for new positions, which include replacing current Fire Chief Wayne Butler, who is set to retire soon. Vice-Mayor Freddie Gregg said that according to the fire department's charter, the decision has to be made "in-house." Mayor Connie Ball told Council, "The first step is to take letters of interest."

Collins asked, "Will the Civil Service provide the names or do I need to visit the fire hall?" Butler told council, "I'd like to see that done by July 9. I'll be gone at the end of the month and I'd love for you all to appoint one by the next council meeting." Butler added, "I think we have some qualified men down there."

Regarding appointment to positions, Danny Wester Jr., representing the fire department's civil service board, told council members, "We don't care to collect the names, but you all do the hiring." Alderman Luke Goddard asked, "Can you give us a recommendation?" Wester replied he would, "Try to get it done the next few days."

Ball said, "I think it's important a set of questions is asked for each candidate." Goddard asked, "Should we furnish them with a list of the questions we're going to ask them so they don't blindside somebody?" It is believed three or four names are currently on the list of potential candidates for upcoming vacancies within the department.

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