Monroe Firefighters Association reacts and votes against new fire chief

On November 28, 2024By Pranco

MONROE, La. (KNOE) – The Monroe Firefighters Association held a press conference outside Monroe City Hall on Wednesday, November 27.

The press conference was held in response to the Monroe City Council’s vote against Captain Daniel Overturf as Monroe’s new fire chief.

Monroe Firefighters Association President Jeremy Hinton said the association wants to promote unity after the vote.

Hinton said that during the selection process for a new fire chief, 11 members took the test to see if they qualified, and the union chose not to endorse any candidate.

MFA President Hinton went on to say that once a decision was made, an anonymous survey sent to union members showed 84.84% support for Captain Overturf.

“Firefighters and supporters from all over our city and even a former colleague of Captain Overturf flew in from New Orleans to support us and rallied behind Captain Overturf,” Hinton said. “There is no mention of his qualifications, proven record of leadership and the respect he has earned throughout the department – critical things needed to lead the department and provide citizens in our city with first-class public safety .”

MFA President Hinton also said this vote could have a negative impact on the department as ongoing business would have to be postponed until a permanent fire chief is appointed.

“To reassure everyone, it has been brought to our attention that our services to the public may be at risk,” Hinton said. “Our first priority is serving the residents of Monroe. Our response and service will not change. We will continue to deliver the best level of service in Class 1, just as we always have!”

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