This decision reflected on the continued irreconcilable differences between the Chief and the Board of Trustees, and the opposing goals and objectives for the future of the Seven Hills Fire District.
Immediately following the Board’s announcement, several firefighters immediately resigned in protest from the fire department by returning their fire gear and radio equipment. None of these members were ‘terminated’ or ‘fired’ from the Seven Hills Fire District as some claim; they all resigned! A couple of disgruntled members proceeded to distribute misinformation on various social media formats. The Seven Hills Fire District stands firm against these misguided actions.
Today, three weeks later, retired Fire Chief, Paul Newton is managing the fire department is his capacity as Interim Fire Chief for Seven Hills FD until qualified candidates for Fire Chief are interviewed and vetted by the Board of Trustees. Under Chief Newton’s leadership, the department has experienced membership growth not seen in several years.
The Seven Hills Fire District is proud to announce that our membership roster has now grown from 6 members to 29 members who are committed to serving their community. Most of these new members have current or previous firefighting certification and many years of firefighting experience. We also have additional individuals progressing through the application process.
Please know that emergency fire services within the Seven Hills community continues to be provided by the dedicated members of SHFD, with occasional mutual aid support providing my neighboring fire departments, if needed. Progressive training programs are being provided weekly, and future training programs and being designed and scheduled to ensure further enhancement of future goals of SHFD.
Mobile County Emergency Medical Services (MCEMSS) will continue to be the primary response agency for emergency medical calls. However, SHFD has on staff several dedicated members that have various EMS licensures, including EMT’s, Paramedics, and RN’s. SHFD will continue to provide adjunct EMS response and support to MCEMSS.
The Seven Hills community continues to enjoy the respected fire protection that the community has grown to depend on and expect, The Seven Hills Fire District and members are committed to provide the very best emergency public services we can and will strive to fulfill the Mission.
We welcome all persons who may be interested in joining the SHFD and becoming a valued member of the SHFD organization. Please call us (251) 633-5606 for more information and become part of the SHFD family!