Internal Candidate Chosen As Next Fire Chief

Deputy Chief Vincent J. Smith, a 33-year veteran firefighter, has been tapped to serve as Wayland's next fire chief upon the retirement of current chief Bob Loomer in early 2012.

In September, . According to a press release from the Town of Wayland, Smith will assume the role of Wayland fire chief on Feb. 25, 2012.

Two individuals already with the Wayland Fire Department were tapped as "outstanding" candidates, according to the press release. Those two candidates, Smith and Capt. David Houghton, each took part in three interview panels, a written exercise and follow-up interviews.

The press release states that the interview process began on Nov. 7 with an assessment panel of two fire chiefs and an emergency room physician. From there, two more interviews with panels consisting of, among others, the Wayland schools superintendent, the town building commissioner, emergency personnel in the town, a member of Board of Selectmen, a member of Finance Committee, a member of Personnel Board, and a nearby town manager who recently hired a fire chief.

"I am pleased to announce the appointment of Vincent J. Smith as fire dhief effective Feb. 25, 2012," Town Administrator Fred Turkington said in the press release. "I look forward to working with Chief Loomer and Chief-designate Smith to assure a smooth transition."

Smith's appointment is contingent on approval by a majority vote of the Wayland Board of Selectmen during its Dec. 12 meeting.

According to the press release, Smith is a Wayland resident who has risen through the ranks of the department since joining in 1978. He has completed numerous certifications including chief fire officer management training, fire inspector and emergency medical technician.

Prior to the public announcement of Smith as his successor, Loomer said he was pleased that a suitable internal candidate had been found.

"It means all the world to me," the current chief said. "I’m very happy for the gentleman who was selected.”

Smith holds a bachelor of science degree in fire administration from Empire State College and a master's in public administration from Framingham State College.