Bethel fire department leaders Geary Coogler and Greg Timmins have resigned. This marks a significant change for the department. Coogler stepped in as interim chief after Dave Aldrighetti had a dispute with the Selectboard over a volunteer fighter. The firefighter made a social media post that sparked controversy.
Aldrighetti wanted to remove the firefighter, but the Selectboard disagreed. Coogler took over and implemented effective policies. He also increased training and handled personnel issues.
Coogler recommended Capt. Paul Feeney as the new interim chief. He also recommended Lt. Kory Richards as interim assistant chief. The Selectboard accepted Coogler’s resignation and appointed Feenay and Richards.
Richards says the department will continue Coogler’s work. “We’ll keep moving forward,” he says. “We’ll build on what Geary started.” Coogler is facing health issues and is ready to pass on the leadership. He’s proud of his accomplishment.
The department is now looking to the future. Feenay and Richards will lead the department as it moves forward, and the Selectboard is confident in their abilities.
Board member Denise Guilmette praised Coogler’s leadership. “Geary managed to pull off the miracle” of leading the department through a tough time, she said.
Coogler’s resignation marks the end of an era. However, it also marks a new beginning for the Bethel Fire Department, which is turning a new page after its leaders’ resignations.
The community wishes Coogler well and thanks him for his service. His dedication to the department will not be forgotten.
This news story was originally published by Valley News.
