Franklin merit commission swears in member, ratifies firefighter to merit status

The Franklin Fire Merit Commission on Tuesday administered the oath of office to Joseph (Joe) Kelly and ratified Firefighter Brandon Krause’s change from probationary to merit status after the department confirmed Krause completed a one‑year probation ending April 7.

The chair of the commission called the meeting to order and the panel reviewed minutes from the March 9 meeting. After a motion and second, the commission approved the minutes; the chair said the vote appeared unanimous.

Counsel Mike Kyle administered the oath of office so that Joseph Kelly could participate with voting rights; the commission noted Kelly will sign and notarize paperwork after the meeting.

Assistant Fire Chief Preston reported that Krause successfully completed his probation on April 7 and recommended the commission ratify Krause’s merit status. Preston said Krause “lived up to everything we’ve needed and has done a good job,” and confirmed the department assignment (primarily station 21 with occasional floating as needed).

The chair moved to approve Krause’s change to merit firefighter and the motion was seconded. The commission called for the favor and recorded no opposition; the commission ratified Krause’s status.

The meeting concluded with brief operational remarks and scheduling discussion; commissioners agreed it may be appropriate to skip the June meeting and consider a less frequent schedule going forward.

The commission’s next steps: Joseph Kelly will finalize signing and notarization of oath paperwork, and departmental records will reflect Krause’s change to merit status.