Tony Leeds resigns as Florence Fire Chief
Florence City Council members Monday night accepted the resignation of Tony Leeds as chief of Florence Fire Department. Leeds has taken a full-time position with Great Bend Fire Department effective April 16.
"I want to commend Tony on the job he did for the city," said councilman Ed Robinson. "He did a good job as fire chief and the city will miss him."
The other council members were vocal in their agreement with Robinson's statement about Leeds' dedication to the community.
Bob Ogle was on hand to explain the fire department's plan for replacing Leeds.
"The fire department meeting is Monday," said Ogle. "At that time we will elect a new chief."
Tim Parmley is assistant chief and he will fill in as acting chief until the mayor can officially appoint the new chief at the next meeting, April 18.
Ogle also reported the department had received some donated equipment from Wichita Fire Department. The equipment included nozzles, fittings, and hose.
Council also heard from Gerald Cleverly about establishing ADA and building codes for businesses. The council took no action after the presentation.
William DuPrez of Wichita Home Center made a presentation about a government program to finance pre-fabricated homes in rural communities. The project requires no commitment from the city other than the ability of city utilities to accommodate growth.
In other business council members:
— approved endorsements to the city's insurance plan.
— approved warrant 2005-07 in the amount of $28,126.63.
— tabled hiring someone to clean the city building and ambulance meeting room, approving ordinance changes for ambulance service, signing off on the extended warranty with U.S. Filter for the new water plant equipment, and an agreement with Spur Ridge Veterinary Clinic for building repair.
— heard the state fire marshal's office gave Florence Fire Department a new computer.
— heard the city is ready to order asphalt to patch streets.
— approved an expenditure from the police budget for $225 for advanced training for three reserve officers.
— heard a hog roast to be held Friday will benefit the swimming pool.
— unanimously accepted Ordinance 775 which outlines city treasurer job description.
— heard the agreement with Marion County for ambulance service has been finalized and things are running smoothly. Council unanimously approved the city's resolution (2005-02) for changes.
— approved a high speed Internet hook-up for the city building computers to accommodate police and utility billing programs.
