Interim Fire Chief Appointed Indefinitely

Michael Small will serve as Seekonk’s Fire Chief for an indefinite amount of time, according to the employment agreement with the town.

Small, the former Falmouth Fire Chief, was appointed by the Select Board last November to fill in for Sandra Lowery, who is retiring in February. Lowery has been on sick leave since September.

“The Interim Fire Chief has been appointed for an indefinite term, commencing on December 6, 2023, which term shall automatically terminate upon the appointment of a permanent Fire Chief or unless sooner terminated in accordance with the terms set forth below,” the agreement states. “Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, either Party shall have the right to terminate, with or without cause, this Agreement and the Interim Fire Chief’s employment with the Town by providing fourteen calendar (14) days’ written notice to the other Party, unless the Parties otherwise agree in writing. In the case of termination of the Interim Fire Chief’s employment, said notice shall include a statement of the reason(s) for removal from office.”

Small will be paid a bi-weekly salary of $7,000 and will have the use of a town vehicle.

In addition, “The Town shall reimburse the Interim Fire Chief for any attorneys' fees and costs incurred by the Interim Fire Chief in connection with such claims or suits involving the Interim Fire Chief in his professional capacity, subject to prior review and approval of the Board.”

“His approach to coming in as an interim is putting both feet forward,” Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said of Small, who retired in 2020.

Former Select Board Chair Michael Healy criticized the board for hiring Small as Interim Fire Chief. Healy, a former Seekonk Fire Chief, resigned from the board on November 13.

The Board agreed to launch a search for a permanent Fire Chief by looking for candidates within the Fire Department as well as outside the department. The vote was 3 to 1. Chris Zorra, Michelle Hines, and Justin Sullivan were in favor, with Pam Pozzi in opposition.