City considers appointing interim fire chief

With Hillsboro Fire Chief Jerry Powell's retirement effective May 28, the administration of the city of Hillsboro is considering its "short- and long-term options" in finding his replacement.

"The city is considering its short- and long-term options. Upon the official retirement of Chief Powell, the City is considering appointing an 'acting chief' from among HFD’s Captains, on a temporary basis, in order to maintain operational continuity and the chain of command," according to Hillsboro Safety and Service Director Rick Giroux. "There isn’t any specific time frame (for appointing a permanent replacement), but the City will move forward in a prudent and expeditious manner."

When asked if the permanent chief will be chosen from existing staff, or if the city will do a search, Giroux said, "The city will do everything it needs to do and is required to do."

Despite the coming change in leadership, Giroux said he anticipates no lapse in the services provided by the department.

"The HFD has competent and experienced staff. I do not anticipate any complications in either function or administration," Giroux said. "I’m sure the department will seem different after Chief Powell’s retirement, however the service will carry on."

Powell has been a fire chief for 13 years, and Giroux said the city appreciates the services that he has provided to the residents of Hillsboro and surrounding areas.

"Chief Powell’s presence will be missed and the City greatly appreciates his decades of dedicated service to the City of Hillsboro and it’s residents," Giroux said. "We wish him all the best in his future endeavors and well-earned retirement."