CORNELIA — For the first time in more than 40 years, Cornelia has a new fire chief.
Chad Dyer, who served as assistant chief of the department for the past several years, began work Monday as head of the department.
Dyer succeeds longtime Fire Chief Frankie Smith, who retired May 16 after 44 years of employment with the city, about four decades of which he was chief.
Tuesday night, Dyer was introduced at the city commission meeting for the first time publicly as chief of the department.
Mayor J.C. Irby presented Dyer with a new white helmet signifying his new leadership position.
Following the meeting, Dyer discussed his appointment.
“I’m humbled by the decision to have an opportunity to be the next fire chief for the city, especially being the successor of a chief that was here for 44 years,” Dyer said. “I’m hoping to continue to move the department forward in the near future. Like I said, I’m appreciative for the decision and the trust that the city has put in me to fulfill that position.”
