Fire Chief Tim Lemon has moved his last day with Chelan Fire and Rescue up to July 31, 2019 with approval of the Board of Fire Commissioners. Chief Lemon has been selected to be the next Fire Chief of North Whidbey Fire and Rescue and is expected to take-up his new position in early August.

Chelan Fire and Rescue is in its final negotiation with Deputy Chief Mark Donnell to take over as the Interim Fire Chief for Chelan Fire and Rescue in August with the expectation that he will be named Chief on January 1, 2020

Commissioner Jones stated this is right in line with Chelan Fire and Rescue’s succession plan that was put in place back in 2016. It provides for its members to move up and will vacate one Chief Officer position which will provide a cost saving to the fire district. In 2018 Assistant Chief Asher was hired through a FEMA grant as the Chief of Volunteer Services for four years ending in 2021. Chief Lemon was expected to retire within these four years providing funding for the ongoing employment of Assistant Chief Asher after the grant runs out. With Chief Lemon’s early departure, the fire district will see a cost saving in wages and benefits over the next two year period before those revenues are used to retain Assistant Chief Asher.

Commissioner Jones added that Chief Lemon’s experience and leadership has been a tremendous asset to the community and he will be sorely missed.