MELFORT — A Melfort firefighter with 18 years of experience has been hired as Melfort's new fire chief.
The City of Melfort announced on Feb. 13 that Leonard Whitney, the current facilities manager, will take the position.
“I have always been passionate about the fire service," Whitney said. "When the opportunity presented itself to take on a full time role with the fire department, I seized it. I have enjoyed my time in the role of facilities manager with the City of Melfort but fire chief is something I have always wanted to achieve and now I have that opportunity.”
Whitney said he was excited to accept the position of fire chief/emergency measures co-ordinator for the City of Melfort.
"I have been with the Melfort Fire Department for 18 years and in that time, I have worked my way up from recruit to firefighter to driver to master driver to lieutenant to captain and now to chief. I take great pride in being a part of the Melfort Fire Department and look forward to being the leader of such a great organization," he said.
He said he's delighted to continue to be a part of the city's management team.
"I look forward to working collaboratively with the city administration, emergency services, and the community to ensure a safer and stronger future for all."
In a press release, the city said that throughout his years in the fire department, Whitney has exhibited exceptional leadership qualities, a deep understanding of firefighting strategies, and a relentless dedication to training and professional development.
"His leadership will undoubtedly inspire and empower our team of firefighters as they continue to serve and protect the residents of Melfort.”
