Assistant chief takes on top job at Ansonia Fire Department

Credit: Linda Moody / Bluebag Media

Credit: Linda Moody / Bluebag Media

The newest chief of the Ansonia Fire Department has served as the assistant chief for the past year.

Paul McCleskey, 53, was sworn in Feb. 5 by village Mayor Rick Lee, who also was a former Ansonia fire chief, our media partner, the Early Bird Paper, reported.

>> Fire reported at home near Ansonia

McCleskey, also a U.S. Army veteran, replaces former chief Bill Clark.

The new chief said a newer tanker will be ready within the month, and that his first plan is to focus on recruitment and retention on the village, which now has 13 firefighters and two probationary.

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