<p>Alexander J. Schaeffer, the deputy chief at the Edgartown fire department, has been named the town’s next fire chief. Selectmen unanimously backed the choice at their meeting Monday.
Alexander J. Schaeffer, the deputy chief at the Edgartown fire department, has been named the town’s next fire chief.
Selectmen unanimously approved the appointment at their meeting Monday. Mr. Schaeffer will take over for chief Peter Shemeth when he retires Jan. 9.
The board of fire engineers unanimously recommended that Mr. Schaeffer succeed Mr. Shemeth as chief, selectman and board chairman Arthur Smadbeck said.
Mr. Smadbeck said he was on the board when Chief Shemeth was appointed. “It’s hard to believe that you’re retiring,” Mr. Smadbeck said.
“It’s been great working with Peter,” town administrator Pamela Dolby said. “I look forward to working with Alex.” Mr. Schaeffer thanked selectmen for giving the fire department time to transition smoothly and allow everyone in the department to prepare for the change.
The new chief has been with the fire department since 1996. In May he received accreditation from the Massachusetts Fire Service Commission, which has established credentials for the level of fire chief. The program has requirements based on education, training, and experience.
The fire chief is a full-time paid position.
Chief Shemeth has been with the fire department for more than 40 years. In January he will turn 65, which is the mandatory retirement age.
Comments
Too bad they have the
Bob EdgartownToo bad they have the mandatory retirement age as Peter still looks young and could still provide many more years of service if he wanted. But I understand wanting to retire. Thank you Peter
Such good news
Janice Oak BluffsSuch good news congratulations
What a good man and he was a
Ned Casey EdgartownWhat a good man and he was a great Fire Chief for our town. Thank you for your commitment and service of 40 years.
Congratulations to both of
Bob Brown EdgCongratulations to both of you. The town will still be in good hands
Chief Shemeth has been a
David E Baker JUPITERChief Shemeth has been a great advocate of fire safety, a great neighbor, and leaves big boots for the new chief to fill! Best of luck to the retiring and new fire chiefs!
I had the pleasure of working
Don Ward EdgartownI had the pleasure of working with him many years ago. He has worked very hard to achieve this position; I think he deserves it, and will handle this role very well. Wishing you all the best Alex.
Rarely do my comments make it
Ken Edg.Rarely do my comments make it into these 2 papers anymore. I wonder if the chiefs were elected would they have to abide by the age rules. Our selectman have no such rules. Just a thought.
Just a few lines to express
Julie and Marla Gibbs The Christopher and The Sydney HotelsJust a few lines to express our gratitude and congratulate Chief Shemeth on his retirement. Thank you for support and assistance since we have opened the hotels. Best wishes to him and also congratulation to the new Chief Schaeffer.
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