The Town of Penetanguishene has appointed a new fire chief/emergency services director.
James MacNeil takes over the lead firefighting role March 16. MacNeil brings more than 23 years of progressive leadership experience in municipal fire and emergency services, with a strong background in fire operations, emergency management, training, fire prevention, and volunteer fire service leadership across Simcoe County and surrounding communities.
Most recently, he has served as fire chief for the Township of Puslinch, where he led all aspects of municipal fire operations in accordance with the Fire Protection and Prevention Act. In this role, he also served as the community emergency management coordinator, overseeing emergency management planning, exercises, and real-world emergency responses.
Throughout his career, MacNeil has demonstrated a strong commitment to community-focused leadership, operational readiness and public safety, according to a release.
"He has overseen fire prevention, inspections, public education, and code compliance programs, and has extensive experience in incident command, emergency management, and regional collaboration with municipal partners, EMS, OPP and neighbouring fire services."
In his new role, MacNeil will be responsible for overseeing Penetanguishene Fire and Emergency Services, emergency management, fire prevention, training, and ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality, professional emergency services to the community.
“Chief MacNeil’s extensive experience leading volunteer fire services, managing emergency operations, and working collaboratively with council and community partners makes him an excellent fit for Penetanguishene,” Penetanguishene CAO Jeff Lees said in a release.