NORWOOD, N.C. — A mayor, fire chief and firefighters abruptly announced their resignations Monday night at a town council meeting.
Fox46.com reported that the Norwood Town Council wanted to get rid of the town’s fire department and bring in fire services with the Center Rural Volunteer Fire Department.
Brian Hardman, assistant fire chief and member of the Norwood Fire Department for 23 years, was the first to resign. Fire Chief John Lambeth then quit, followed by Mayor Beverly Johnson.
Johnson blamed the fire department’s resignations on campaign agendas that included cutting taxes, WSOCtv.com reported.
“This is the way they’re living up to their campaign promises,” Johnson said. “I do not like the way they have treated people. They don’t have feelings for people who look after you.”
Around 15 firefighters also resigned, including two captains and one lieutenant. Stanly County 911 and EMS and Center Rural Volunteer Fire Department is now providing primary coverage to the town.
Commissioner John Mullis said the town will convene at a later date to discuss options and discussions will continue with Center Rural VFD. He said the town is not interested in a merger of departments but a contract arrangement, according to the report.