OMAHA, Neb. — Embattled Omaha Fire Chief Mike McDonnell has agreed to retire and step down effective immediately; part of his agreement will save firefighters from layoffs.
Omaha.com reported that his exit package agreement protects current department staff from layoffs through next July and gives Chief McDonnell a full pension — more than a year before he qualifies for it.
The agreement also keeps existing fire equipment in service through next July and adds about $2 million to the department’s budget, according to the report.
“These changes are in the best interest of the city of Omaha and will move the fire department ahead in a positive manner,” Mayor Jean Stothert said.
The exit agreement must be codified into a legally binding contract by Friday or it becomes void, according to the report.
Battalion Chief Bernard Kanger, who was been with the department since 1991, has been named interim chief, according to the report.
Chief McDonnell and Mayor Stothert have been at odds over the mayor’s proposed $90.6 million Fire Department budget, which could have forced layoffs, demotions and pulling firetrucks and ambulances from service, according to the report.