Hiram, OH, Mayor Shuts Down Fire Department after Chief Retires

The Hiram Fire Department was shut down by the mayor after the retirement of the fire chief.

Chief Bill Byers alleged a toxic work environment and called his job "demeaning" in a letter announcing his retirement. An assistant chief also left last week. 

The Hiram Firefighters Association lauded Byers for his 21-years of service to the department that includes 15 as chief, according to the Ravenna Record-Courier.

"We have firefighters who are ready and willing to work to protect this community. This is not how we move forward — this is how we risk losing more dedicated members by denying hardworking men and women the opportunity to serve and earn a living. By closing the department, response times will increase. When emergency services are farther away, every minute matters. For the sake of your loved ones, we sincerely hope you never have to experience an emergency and wait longer for help to arrive. Our community deserves timely, reliable protection," Hiram Firefighters Local officials wrote in statement.

While they supported Byers, the firefighters voted no confidence in Mayor Anne Haynam, who said Sunday officials will be interviewing candidates to fill  a lieutenant position.

"Last night was the first that Chief Byers offered support and direction in terms of two lieutenants having qualifications to potentially run operations. We are still waiting for an updated roster," Haynam's statement read.

Until things are sorted out, firefighters with the Ga.rrettsville Freedom Nelson Fire District will provide service.