Gravette seeks new fire chief to fill vacancy

D outhit plans to remain with the department and fill an open position as full-time paramedic.

GRAVETTE — Mayor Kurt Maddox announced on June 1 that the city was taking applications for the position of full-time Gravette fire chief.

In making the announcement, he said that he had accepted Rob Douthit’s resignation from the position in late May. Douthit plans to remain with the department and fill an open position as full-time paramedic.

Maddox expressed his thanks for Douthit’s service in the position and said he wishes him all the best. Police chief Chuck Skaggs will serve as interim fire chief.

According to information on the city website, the fire chief plans, organizes, directs and administers all operations of the fire department including the administration (public relations, management of budget, personnel, supplies, equipment, structures and compliance/enforcement of regulations, policies and procedures), fire suppression, ambulance response, fire investigations, fire prevention, building inspections, code enforcement, hazardous material response, rescue and all other life safety/emergency services (excluding law enforcement) provided by the city of Gravette.

Primary obligations include directing activities at the scene of emergencies; remaining on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with the exception of scheduled leaves and vacations; directly supervising fulltime paramedic/firefighters and several volunteer firefighters; directing ALS ambulance operations, fire suppression activities, fire investigations, building inspections and code enforcement; preparing monthly reports for the city council; preparing a yearly fire department budget; attending city, county, state and other meetings to represent Gravette Fire Department; and conducting departmental meetings and training sessions.

Details about qualifications required of applicants for the position may be secured on the city website or by visiting Gravette City Hall.

Benefits of the position include holiday pay, vacation and sick leave time, LOPFI retirement and municipal health insurance. Salary offered ranges from $45,900 to $62,100 depending on qualifications and experience.

Resumes may be dropped off at Gravette City Hall, 604 First Avenue, S.E., or emailed to info@gravettear.com.