BATTLE CREEK, MI (WNWN/WTVB) – There has been a change at the top of the Battle Creek Fire Department.
Former Fire Chief Bill Beaty and the city parted ways on Monday. Battle Creek Police Chief Shannon Bagley will assume the role of interim director for both city fire and police services, effective immediately.
According to a press release from the city, the decision follows a thorough department review that determined a leadership change was necessary to better align with the city’s performance goals and objectives.
“We thank Bill Beaty for his service and contributions to the department during his tenure as fire chief,” said City Manager Rebecca Fleury. “I’m confident this change will lead to new opportunities for growth and professional development within the department.”
Beaty has been the Battle Creek Fire Chief since October of 2022. He came to Battle Creek after previously serving as the Deputy Chief for the all-volunteer Divernon, Illinois Fire Protection District.
Bagley, who was appointed chief of police for Battle Creek in June 2023, does not expect the change to impact emergency response operations while the city assesses next steps.
Bagley said, “Our city has an incredible team of firefighters, including five highly capable battalion chiefs who I will continue to entrust with leading daily fire operations.”
The Battle Creek City Commission workshop on fire station proposals will be held as scheduled on Tuesday evening starting at 5:00 p.m. in the City Commission chambers.
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