The Natick Fire Department is set to hire its first assistant chief to improve management and efficiency within the team
The Select Board recently voted to send a letter to state Rep. David Linsky. This letter will help push the home-rule petition through the Legislature, which is necessary to create the new role outside of Civil Service.
Fire Chief Jason Ferschke explained that the assistant chief will be the clear number two in the department. This person will help manage nearly 90 firefighters and civilian staff.
What’s interesting is that the assistant chief will be a nonunion employee. This is different from the deputy chief roles, which are union positions. Ferschke believes this setup will streamline management and reduce conflicts between union duties and managerial responsibilities.
He mentioned that having an assistant chief will be a huge help in tackling daily needs. It will also allow the fire chief to focus on bigger-picture planning for the department.
While Natick is moving forward, it’s worth noting that other nearby towns like Framingham and Marlborough have had assistant chiefs for years.
Ferschke is eager to fill the position but is waiting for the home-rule petition to clear the legislative process. He hasn’t decided yet whether to promote someone from within the department or look for candidates outside.
Another benefit of this new role is that it will aid in succession planning. Ferschke sees the assistant chief as a key player in preparing someone to eventually step into the fire chief position.
