Boston – Assistant Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), Representative Barbara L’Italien (D-Andover) and Representative Harriett Stanley (D-West Newbury) have announced the recent passage into law of Senate Bill 2342, “An Act Providing for the Establishment of a Strong Fire Chief in the Town of Georgetown.” On Thursday, April 24th, Governor Patrick signed the bill into law.
The new law provides Georgetown with a strong fire chief to oversee the Erie Fire Association No. 4, Inc. and the Central Fire Company. The strong fire chief management system will allow the two volunteer fire departments to function together cohesively as well as independently.
“Through the collaboration of local officials and our legislative delegation we have been able to devise a management system that fits the unique circumstances in Georgetown. Now the town can maintain strong and effective fire and emergency service protection for the future,” said Tarr
“I am very pleased that this initiative has been passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor,” said Rep. Barbara L’Italien. “This will indeed lead to the increased safety and well being of the town and its’ citizens.”
The new law will now allow the fire chief to make all managerial decisions, abandoning the Board of Fire Engineers model. The new model will allow for more fluid and timely decisions to be made on behalf of the town’s fire department operations.
Selectman Matthew Vincent said “This is wonderful news for Georgetown. Thanks to the hard work and perseverance of our Fire Department Advisory Committee, Chief Mike Anderson, and that of Senator Bruce Tarr and Representative Barbara L’Italien, Georgetown is about to take a very important step forward in providing for the safety of our growing town. Our volunteer fire fighters have gone above and beyond the call of duty, sacrificing many hours away from their families to deal with medical and fire emergencies. For that, we are deeply grateful.”
Vincent went on to say “Our review of the command structure of the fire department and the recommendation for this change to a “strong chief” management was heavily influenced by the desires of our volunteer fire fighters, and the recognition that the demands on our fire department have grown even faster than our town. With this new command structure, the Georgetown Fire Department is well poised to deal with and adapt to the changing needs of our community for many years to come.”
“Public safety needs to be strong in every way,” said Rep. Stanley. “Strengthening the Fire Chief’s role makes organizational sense and will actually result in better fire coverage for Georgetown.”
