The City of Sarnia has selected a new fire chief to take over when Bryan Van Gaver retires in the new year.
Former Cornwall Fire Chief Jeff Weber will start February 1.
In a news release, Van Gaver said he's excited to welcome Weber to the Sarnia Fire Rescue team.
"His track record speaks for itself, and it is good to know the service will be in good hands, benefiting from his leadership as I hang up my hat,” Van Gaver said. “I was struck by his breadth of experience in all aspects of the fire service including emergency management, fire prevention, suppression, support, and communications. I have no doubt he will be a great contributor to the department as it continues to protect the health, safety, lives and property of our residents.”
Weber has over 30 years of firefighting experience and numerous professional qualifications.
He started his career in 1992, and previously served as the fire chief, deputy chief, and community emergency management coordinator for the City of Cornwall.
He was a deputy fire chief and community emergency management coordinator for the City of Barrie, deputy chief with the Burlington Fire Department and deputy chief for the Kitchener Fire Department.
Weber said working in Sarnia is going to be "a great new experience."
"I am looking forward to contributing my insight and vision to the long-standing track record of excellence delivered by Sarnia Fire Rescue,” said Weber.
In July, Chief Van Gaver announced he planned to retire in 2024 after nearly 40 years with Sarnia Fire Rescue.
His last day will be March 31, 2024.
The city said the overlap of leadership will ensure a smooth transition.
Sarnia's deputy fire chief and community emergency management coordinator (CEMC), Dale Gartshore, just started at the end of August.