Longtime Central MA Fire Chief Officially Retires, Interim Chief Takes Helm

NORTHBOROUGH, MA — A longtime fire chief in Central Massachusetts has officially retired.

Northborough Fire Department Chief David Parenti began his retirement after 40 years in the fire service on Wednesday. He became chief in 2016 after being unanimously appointed to the position by the town's Board of Selectmen.

At the time, Patch reported that Chief Parenti replaced longtime Chief David Durgin, who retired.

At just 16 years old, Chief Parenti began his firefighting career as a volunteer in New York. He spent more than 20 years serving in New Hampshire, and ultimately became the Chief of the Belmont Fire Department, NFD said.

Chief Parenti was also a highly respected instructor at the State Fire Academy, where he focused on Officer Development and mentoring the next generation of service leaders.

The Northborough Fire Department highlighted several significant milestones the town achieved during Chief Parenti's tenure. That includes major tech advancements, the creation of a Deputy Chief position, the hiring of eight firefighters through a federal SAFER grant and the realization of a new fire station.

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The Northborough Fire Department said Chief Parenti was instrumental in leading the town through the COVID-19 pandemic, both locally and through the highly successful regional vaccination clinic in Westborough.

"Above all of these accomplishments, Chief Parenti leaves behind something even more meaningful: a strong and positive firehouse culture rooted in pride, compassion, and family," the Northborough Fire Department shared in a statement."He will be greatly missed and difficult to replace, but he prepared us well to move forward seamlessly, continuing to grow and improve."

The town is now seeking applicants for its next Fire Chief. You can learn more about the position here.

For the time being, Deputy Chief Neal Aspesi will serve as the town's acting fire chief. He has served in Northborough since Jul. 2023.

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