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City's fire chief abruptly retires

By Howard B. Owens

Members of the City of Batavia Fire Department were surprised to learn Friday that their fire chief, James Maxwell, retired with no apparent notice.

Contacted by phone this morning, Maxwell said he wasn't in a position to comment on his retirement, but did confirm it was not announced prior to the decision.

City Manager Jason Molino confirmed last night that Maxwell retired. We have not yet been able to reach him this morning for further comment.

We've spoken with several members of the fire department and all were surprised by Maxwell's departure and said they've been told nothing further about Maxwell leaving the department. One member said they were told to refer questions to Molino.

UPDATE 10:51 a.m.: Jim Maxwell asked to include the following statement: "I enjoyed my time with the department and the opportunity to work with the professional men and women of the organiztion. I wish them all the best in the future."

We're expecting to speak with Molino later. He said he has a statement.

Also, we've learned there was a civil service posting for the position Dec. 2. 

UPDATE 3:29 p.m.: Jason Molino and I have been unable to connect by phone today. He e-mailed over this statement: "The City thanks Chief Maxwell for his years of service to the community. We wish him the best in his future endeavors."

UPDATE 3:32 p.m.: A person familiar with the civil service process says the exam was not posted Dec. 2. That was the last filing date for the exam. If a job opening had been posted, the reader suggests, City fire personnel would not be surprised by the retirement.

Ricky G. Hale

Perhaps this may be the City's opportunity to eliminate the position entirely and altogether. Hind site is always great, but the City did not act the last time the opportunity arose. Paid fire officials and the ranks have been a "thorn" in Batavia's side for a long time. We'll see what Mr. Molino does this time. He has eliminated several other City positions in the past, including police officers, et cetera. Does he have the guts this time?

Dec 19, 2015, 9:33am Permalink
John Roach

The job was posted on Dec 2nd, but, it was not until the 17th the Chief decided to retire? And Molino did not bother to tell Council the job had been already posted.
It just does not add up.

Dec 19, 2015, 12:54pm Permalink

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