Role swap means new fire chief needed
By Medicine Hat News on March 1, 2023.
The city has temporarily paused its search for a permanent public services managing director, but will soon begin recruitment efforts for a new Fire and Emergency Services chief. The city announced Tuesday that interim public services managing director Brian Stauth, who transitioned from his former role as fire chief on Feb. 1, will be retiring in March 2024; but confirmed Stauth will remain in his current role until his retirement date. Stauth, who has been a firefighter with the city since 1994 and served as chief since 2012, transitioned from his former role Feb. 1 following departure of former public services managing director Brain Mastel. As interim managing director, Stauth will work with the city’s executive and senior leadership teams, including city council to oversee several public services initiatives, including the Recreation Master Plan; Community Well Being Plan; Arts, Heritage and Entertainment Plan, as well as Facilities for the Future and community safety initiatives. “I am excited to work with the rest of the executive leadership team, the senior leadership team, city council and all the dedicated city employees to create better outcomes for our residents,” Stauth said of his new role. In the meantime, the city will begin searching for a new fire chief, with deputy chief Chad Eakins and assistant deputy chief Douglas Gill leading the charge at present. Applications for the role of fire chief are expected to open shortly. The service is also welcoming applications for four available firefighter positions. Details can be found on the city’s website. 8-7
