Anderson Fire Protection District Fire Chief Joe Piccinini resigned

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Anderson Fire Protection District Fire Chief Joe Piccinini resigned

Anderson fire chief resigns

* By Michael Woodward
ANDERSON -- Fire Chief Joe Piccinini resigned from the Anderson Fire Protection District, the district board announced tonight.

Dated July 1, Piccinini's resignation marked the end of his tenure in Anderson, which began October 15, 2007.

Piccinini was placed on paid leave May 12 and an investigation into the chief's management of the district ensued. The district hired Anderson's former police chief, Neil Purcell, to conduct the investigation. For weeks, Piccinini's attorney and board lawyers have gone back and forth as they crafted the terms of his resignation.

"It's been a stressful, long eight weeks on my wife and I," Piccinini said during a phone interview following the meeting. "We are glad it is behind us and look forward to the future."

Chairman Keith Webster read a prepared statement signed by Piccinini, who was not present at the meeting. "I would like to thank you for the opportunity to serve the people of Anderson; however at this time, different professional and personal opportunities have presented themselves and I must resign my position with the Anderson Fire Protection District," the statement said.

All details related to the investigation and terms of any agreements between Piccinini and the board are to remain confidential, board chairman Keith Webster said.

Board members said now they will begin selecting Piccinini's replacement. Andy Nichols will continue to serve as acting fire chief.

Source: Redding.com - Link

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Tuesday, July 7, 2009