After serving as the deputy fire chief for Pitt Meadows Fire and Rescue Service for the past couple of months, Stephan Drolet has officially been named the new Pitt Meadows fire chief.
READ MORE: Pitt Meadows hires deputy fire chief from Maple Ridge Fire Rescue
On Tuesday, the city announced the decision, with Mayor Nicole MacDonald saying that Drolet will be a pivotal part of the fire department’s continued efforts to navigate the transition to 24/7 coverage.
“His passion for the safety and well-being of our community, combined with his proven ability to foster teamwork, will undoubtedly contribute greatly to the continued success of Pitt Meadows Fire and Rescue Service,” said MacDonald.
The need for a new fire chief arose when former chief Mike Larsson announced on July 26 that he had taken a position as the fire chief for the Penticton Fire Department.
READ MORE: Pitt Meadows fire chief leaving to head department in Penticton
City CAO Mark Roberts said he was very happy to be able to make Drolet the permanent fire chief.
“Stephan has been an integral part of Pitt Meadows Fire for many years, and his promotion from deputy fire chief is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and commitment to our organization,” said Roberts.
Near the beginning of his firefighting career, Drolet spent 18 years as a paid-on-call volunteer for Pitt Meadows, giving him an intimate familiarity with the department and the city.
“I am honoured to be the new fire chief and to lead the department as we go forward and maintain the tradition of dedicated selfless service for which we are known,” said Drolet.
READ ALSO: Pitt Meadows Fire and Rescue Services reaches record number of August calls
CAO Roberts called the promotion well-deserved and said he has high hopes for what Drolet will accomplish for the city.
“We are excited to witness the positive impact he will undoubtedly have on our department and the community we serve,” said Roberts.
