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Fire Chief Jeff Mongold asks council for guidance after volunteer board blocks his role
Summary
Jeff Mongold told the New Market Town Council the volunteer board of New Market Fire and Rescue, Inc. told him in Sept. 2025 he could no longer serve as their volunteer fire chief, leaving him uncertain about his authority; he asked the council for direction while the assistant chief is acting in the role.
Jeff Mongold, identified at the meeting as Fire Chief of the New Market Fire Department, told the council that the New Market Fire and Rescue, Inc. board of directors informed him in September 2025 that he could no longer serve as their volunteer fire chief "per their attorney." He said the board's notice came verbally and that he has not seen anything in writing; the department's assistant chief is currently acting as chief.
Mongold told council he had considered stepping down but, after discussing the matter with the town manager, attended the meeting to seek guidance on "what he is supposed to do and where he stands." Mayor Peter Hughes and staff said they needed more information before acting. Mr. Ham advised the council that the volunteer organization is a separate entity and recommended gathering further organizational guidance and information before making any appointment or directive. The council did not take formal action at the meeting.
