Township Appoints New Fire Prevention Officer

STRATHROY-CARADOC - Township appointed Jayson Chabot as the new Fire Prevention Officer on April 15. The announcement marks the culmination of a lengthy recruitment process initiated in December 2023 after the position was left vacant earlier in the year.

At the meeting, Deputy Mayor Mike McGuire delegated the presentation of the hiring report to Doug Payne, Director of Human Resources. Payne briefed council, outlining the extensive recruitment efforts and Chabot's qualifications. Chabot, previously engaged as a temporary By-law Officer, has over two decades of experience in municipal service, focusing on security, law enforcement, and by-law matters.

Councilor Brian Derbyshire requested a private discussion regarding the appointment, which was not granted, suggesting that not all aspects of the hiring were made public. However, the council proceeded to approve the hiring report as presented, with Councillor Kennes motioning and Councillor Pelkman seconding the move.

Chabot's credentials include numerous certifications in NFPA standards for fire prevention and fire investigations, reinforcing his role as a volunteer firefighter. His expertise is expected to enhance the township's fire safety education, inspections, and investigations according to the Ontario Fire Code and related legislation.

Council highlighted Chabot's role in strengthening fire safety, reflecting its strategic commitment to maintaining a skilled workforce for community services.

David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Middlesex Banner