OOB Fire Chief leaving for the private sector; fire captain becomes deputy fire chief

John Gilboy, left is sworn in as deputy fire chief at the Old Orchard Beach Town Council meeting on Tuesday. Also in the photo are Fire Chief Fred LaMontagne and Town Clerk Kim McLaughlin. PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWN OF OLD ORCHARD BEACH

Liz Gotthelf, Publisher•

OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Fire Chief Fred LaMontagne is leaving his position for a job in the private sector.

Town Manager Diana Asanza announced at Tuesday’s Town Council meeting that LaMontagne was leaving after three years of service to the town. She said during his tenure at Old Orchard Beach, he provided a solid foundation for the town’s future.

“His leadership along with his decisive actions, (and) his open communication during the pandemic, kept the town and its citizens safe,” said Asanza. “I sincerely appreciate his partnership, his professionalism and his can-do attitude in everything he accomplished here.”

Town Council Chairman Shawn O’Neill noted that LaMontagne attended every single Town Council meeting, and he praised him for his leadership and professionalism.

“You will be missed,” he said.

LaMontagne said he appreciated the support he received from his fellow firefighters and he will miss working with them as well as other town staff and town officials.

“It’s an incredible department, it’s an incredible community. I’ve enjoyed my time here immensely. The men and women of the Old Orchard Beach Fire Department are a great group. They’re professional, they’re hard working,” he said.

Town Councilor Larry Mead said LaMontagne had “a true gift at leadership,” a willingness to take risks and to look for unique ways to solve problems, and “a work ethic that is second to none.”

Also at Tuesday’s meeting, Captain John Gilboy was sworn as the new deputy fire chief.

“Captain Gilboy has the requisite leadership, management, institutional knowledge and professional skills to lead the Old Orchard Beach Fire Department as a deputy fire chief,” said LaMontagne.

He said Gilboy has earned respect not only from his co-workers, but also from public safety officials in neighboring departments and in local hospitals. Gilboy manages the fire department’s EMS supply operation and emergency medical training and provides community CPR training, said LaMontagne. Gilboy was also integral part of the purchase of three ambulances and numerous pieces of equipment, he said.

Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.