Paul Bass Photo
Battalion Chief Matthew Marcarelli has emerged as the Harp administration’s choice to serve as the fire department’s next assistant chief of operations.
Marcarelli (pictured earlier this month reporting at the Emergency Operations Center reporting during a snow storm) was the top scorer out of four applicants for the job, which pays $110,295 a year. (Click here to read more about that.)
Fire Chief Allyn Wright has decided to recommend Marcarelli to the Fire Commission, which must approve the appointment. The date for the commission’s meeting has not yet been set. Commission Chair Rev. Eldren Morrison said Thursday that the meeting will take place by the end of the month.
City Chief Administrative Officer Mike Carter said Marcarelli was selected because of his years of experience, and his knowledge of fire training operations, and OSHA. “He’s a bright guy, a hard worker,” Carter said.
“I have great confidence in Battalion Chief Marcarelli’s ability to meet the new responsibilities he’d face as assistant chief and I will
encourage the fire commissioners to consider this recommendation favorably,” Mayor Harp said in a press release issued Friday. “For the effective administration of the city’s fire department, it is important we place the right candidate in this position.”
Thomas Neville has been filling the assistant chief’s position on an acting basis. He did not pursue the permanent position. The other assistant chief, in charge of administration, Pat Egan, has been on leave since Sept. 22 as the board considers the chief’s request to fire him.
Excellent choice by the administration. This shows the serious commitment the administration has to see the fire department return to one of the best departments in the nation. Chief Wright should be proud to be setting the path to bring back integrity and honor to the rank and file. Congratulations Chief Marcarelli well deserve.