WORTHINGTON — Fire Chief Kyle Challet has tendered his resignation, although he will continue in his duties until a replacement comes aboard.
“I just really don’t have the time to do it anymore,” said Challet, who cited more and more time required for trainings and meetings when asked why he was stepping down.
Challet tendered his resignation to the Select Board in a letter last week, effective March 22. However, Challet said he will continue as a member of the department and serve as chief until a replacement is found.
“I’ll be helping out as much as I can,” Challet said.
Selectman Charley Rose noted that Challet stepped up following the resignation of Worthington’s previous chief, Richard Granger, in 2015.
“We totally appreciate the job he’s done,” Rose said.
Rose said the Select Board is “actively looking” for a new chief and will be posting the position. He also said the board is working with the Finance Committee to determine compensation for the position. Challet’s yearly compensation is around $5,800 a year, Rose said.
Asked for his best memory as chief, Challet, 39, said “serving the town in general.”
He also expressed appreciation for the support he’s received from the department and the townspeople, and he noted a need of his department as well.
“The Fire Department’s always looking for volunteers,” Challet said.
Plainfield Fire Chief David Alvord said he hopes that Worthington gets more recruits, as a smaller department there puts more pressure on surrounding towns.
“We’re going to support them in any way that they need during this time,” Alvord said, noting the mutual aid agreements that the towns have with one another.