On Wednesday evening, Ashland Borough Council formally approved the reorganization of the Ashland Fire Department, paving the way for new leadership as Fire Chief Phil Groody prepares to step down from his role at the end of 2024 after more than two decades of service.
Chief Groody, who announced his decision to retire from the role last year, gave the council ample notice, allowing him time to complete several key projects, including the highly successful Ashland Community Night Out. With the end of the year approaching, both the fire department and borough council worked to finalize plans for the department’s future leadership.
During recent council workshops, Chief Groody shared his recommendations for the department’s reorganization, which council members approved in their Wednesday meeting. The approved changes include the following appointments:
- Current Assistant Chief Charlie Orth will step into the role of Fire Chief.
- Assistant Chief Christopher Groody will assume the position of 1st Assistant Chief.
- Assistant Chief Charles Steinhilber will take on the role of 2nd Assistant Chief, while also maintaining his current role as Captain of the Washington Fire Company.
- Captain Phil Groody Jr. of the American Hose Company will be appointed as the 3rd Assistant Chief. Groody Jr. will also maintain his role as Captain.
In addition, upon his retirement, Chief Groody will assume a new role as the Borough of Ashland’s Safety Officer. Although Ashland has had Fire Marshals in the past, the Safety Officer role is a newly created position, which allows Groody to assume command in emergency situations if all four chiefs are unavailable. He will also assist those in command of an emergency incident to make sure all first responders are operating safely.
Chief Groody will officially step down from his role at the close of 2024, with Assistant Chief Orth and Captain Groody Jr. scheduled to be sworn into their new roles in January.
Reflecting on his career and the transition, Chief Groody addressed the council, saying, “From the bottom of my heart, it was an honor to serve this fine borough.” Turning to Orth, he extended his gratitude, adding, “With honor and gratitude, thank you for your past help and good luck to the future. Here is your new Chief.”