Washington firefighters vote to maintain all officers in new year

With no positions contested, Washington firefighters voted unanimously to maintain the positions of Fire Chief Brendan DeLong, First Assistant Chief Bill Hartsock, Second Assistant Chief Jim Williams and Secretary/Treasurer Philip Morris in 2022.

“I am pleased & grateful to have the support of my fellow firefighters, city council, and mayor to remain as fire chief in 2022,” DeLong said in an email. “I speak for all officers and we appreciate everyone's support.”

While the Fire Chief’s position is technically filled by mayoral appointment, Mayor Jaron Rosien said he made that appointment based on the department’s yearly elections.

Rosien said the universal re-approval of department officials was unusual, but welcome.

“All of the officers elected are the same as they were last year, that does not happen often,” he said. “(It’s) kind of a neat thing to have happen.”

The Washington City Council voted 4-0 to affirm the election results.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com