Cleveland council declines appointment of a new fire chief, backs current chief after residency questions

On July 3, the Cleveland Town Council voted to deny appointing a new fire chief and to retain the current chief after members reviewed a letter from Preston and discussed local residency and nomination rules.

Council members said Preston has substantial training and experience but that confusion about his intent and where he lives prompted discussion. One council member said the town's only formal requirement under county rules is Emery County residency, while others emphasized the town's limited pool of qualified volunteers. "Losing Preston would be, like, really rough — he has a lot of experience and a lot of training," a committee member said.

The motion to deny a new appointment and keep the current chief in place was made by Committee member (S2) and seconded by Committee member (S7); council voices indicated the motion carried.

Members also agreed there is no clear local policy defining nomination and residency standards for the fire chief. Council participants asked staff to consult a town attorney and to draft a formal policy so future nominations and succession are clearer. The Huntington Fire Department's written policies were offered as an example to review, and the council agreed to provide Preston a letter expressing appreciation and to clarify any miscommunication.

Next steps: the council asked staff to arrange legal review of a draft policy, to bring the item back on next month's agenda if enforcement or changes are needed, and to confirm outreach to Preston. No formal disciplinary action or removal was recorded at the meeting.