Fire Chief

Pa. Chief Resigns Over 'Union Resistance'

Former Coatesville (Pa.) Fire Chief Kevin Johnson said this week that he did not resign because of a recent report that put him in a poor light.

From the Daily Local News: Former Coatesville (Pa.) Fire Chief Kevin Johnson said this week that he did not resign because of a recent report that put him in a poor light.

Two retired Philadelphia fire chiefs prepared a 26-page report on a Sept. 20, 2010, fire that caused about $1.5 million damage to 28 units at the Millview Apartments.

According to the report, poor communication and a lack of accountability led in part to the injuries of seven firefighters. The report specifically blamed Johnson and other leaders for failing to properly manage the emergency response.

Johnson said the main reason for his departure was his inability to lead the department due to resistance from the union representing paid firefighters. Johnson is a former volunteer with the fire bureau and was named part-time chief in November 2006. He said his issues with the union have been undermining his leadership for quite some time. Read the entire article here.

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