There have been a few changes to the fire department starting January 1st, 2023.
Firstly, Gary Stuart, who has served as Chief since 2005 and volunteered since 1982, retired as paid Chief and is currently the Volunteer Assistant Chief of the department. Keith Stuart was selected by the Commissioners to replace Gary. Keith comes to the position with 22 years of Fire and EMS volunteer work with the agency. He also has work experience of 11 years as a Lieutenant with Clark County Fire District 13, and 13 years as an EMT with North Country EMS.
Feel free to stop by the station during normal business hours to meet the new Chief. And please thank Gary for his time served and congratulate him on his retirement if you see him in the community or on a call.
Secondly, the Fire Commissioners have seen some personnel changes as well. Don Stuart retired on Jan 1 as a commissioner. Don was one of the founding members of the department and has served in many positions over the decades, including a Firefighter/EMT, Chief, Assistant Chief, and Commissioner. Again, please thank Don for his service and congratulate him on his retirement.
Don Stuart's position as Fire Commissioner was filled by appointment by Rob Dore. Rob Dore comes to the position with years of experience including Fire Chief of a Hood River fire agency, Firefighter/EMT, Captain and then Assistant Chief with Cowlitz-Skamania Fire Dist #7. Rob Dore will fill the seat until the next election cycle and then he may run for the position if he chooses.
The remaining Fire Commissioner's positions are filled by Day Parkhill and Michael Rietman.
If you have any questions, please feel free to stop by or contact the station.