Cleveland council declines new fire-chief appointment amid residency confusion; seeks policy clarification

The Cleveland Town Council voted on July 3 to deny appointing a new fire chief and to allow the current chief to remain in the role while the town clarifies its policy.

Council discussion centered on whether the town is required to have a fire chief who lives within town limits. Staff reported they had contacted the fire district and reviewed policy and were told only that the chief must be a resident of Emery County unless the town adopts a more restrictive local rule. Council members said Preston — identified in the meeting as the current chief who had temporarily stepped back — has certifications and qualifications the town values.

One council member asked for written evidence of county residency requirements; another council member recommended avoiding actions that could alienate an experienced volunteer. Members said Huntington and Elmo routinely share mutual aid with Cleveland and that Preston’s approximate 6-mile distance from town did not appear to disqualify him under county rules.

Because the town lacks a written local policy governing fire-chief residency and appointment, council members directed staff to pursue a formal policy: several asked that the town consult an attorney and consider a written position describing nomination, internal fire-department selection and mayoral appointment procedures used in neighboring towns. Council also discussed drafting a letter to Preston to express ongoing support and repair any miscommunication.

On the agenda item the council made and carried a motion to deny appointing a new fire chief and to retain the current chief. The meeting record shows a voice vote in favor; detailed roll-call votes were not recorded in the transcript.

Council members said they would consider drafting an ordinance or formal policy to clarify residency, certification expectations and the nomination/appointment process for future vacancies.