Fire chiefs mum on EMO nomination
ALBION – The leaders of the 12 fire departments in Orleans County met tonight and supported a successor to Paul Wagner, the county’s emergency management director who is retiring July 18.
The Fire Chiefs Association, however, declined to say who they are backing. The appointment ultimately lies with David Callard, chairman of the Orleans County Legislature. The group said it didn’t want to make its recommendation public for at least a few days so Callard wouldn’t feel undue public pressure about the job.
Wagner, a former Clarendon fire chief, has served in the role for 14 years. Three people have been pursuing the job in recent months, including current Albion Fire Chief Rocky Sidari, past Albion Fire Chief Dale Banker and past Holley Fire Chief David Knapp, a current county fire investigator.
The Fire Advisory Council, which includes representatives from the fire departments, also is expected to make a recommendation for Wagner’s successor.
