By Matt Nemeth

‘Business as usual’ for Cypress County Fire Department: councillor

Dec 28, 2016 | 9:46 AM

DUNMORE, AB — The Cypress County Fire Department is known for its ability to respond efficiently and effectively to multiple situations. That reputation and operational capability has led to a large increase of work according to councillor Garry Lentz, and he says that increased workload was a contributing factor when it comes to why the department’s top two men are no longer there.

Former fire chief Dennis Mann retired around a year ago says Lentz, and his resignation meant more responsibility was offloaded on then deputy fire chief Ray Gradwell. According to Lentz, Gradwell’s contract with the county expired recently and after reviewing a new study of their fire services operation, the decision was made to not renew it.

The top priority right now for the county is finding a new deputy chief says Lentz, but in the meantime he stresses there’s no need for people to be concerned.

“We have several district fire chiefs that are very well trained and very capable in managing their departments so it’s business as usual,” said Lentz Friday.

Both Gradwell and Mann had taken medical leaves of absence before ending their time with Cypress County, and Lentz adds that responding to things like fatal crashes “can take its toll” on those involved.

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