Saco appoints new fire chief

David Hamel will be Saco’s next Fire Chief.

The City Council on Monday unanimously voted to approve David Hamel to the position beginning Nov. 1, when current Fire Chief John Duross retires.

Hamel is currently serving as Deputy Fire Chief, and has been with the department for 21 years, starting out as a firefighter/EMS provider.

“Although we are very sad to see Chief Duross leave for retirement, we are incredibly grateful for his years and dedication to the City of Saco and welcome Deputy Chief Hamel to the position,” said Mayor Jodi MacPhail.

According to City Council written commentary, Hamel has spearheaded many key initiatives in his past year as deputy fire chief, including the development and implementation of a comprehensive field training officer program and securing grant funding to support training for emergency medical services. He has also collaborated with Age Friendly Saco to enhance and promote healthy living among local seniors.

“It’s a wonderful profession, and Saco is a great place to work,” said Hamel. “I enjoy serving the community and working with a great bunch of folks and everything in between.”

Hamel received a standing ovation from a room full of firefighters, friends and family in the Council chambers on Monday.

“I can’t imagine we could have had a better candidate for the position,” said Councilor Phil Hatch.

He said he had interacted with Hamel through his Rotary club and Age Friendly Saco, and Hamel had a “stellar” reputation in the community.

“His commitment to professional growth and excellence is evident not only in his personal achievements but also in his efforts to elevate his colleagues and the department,” said City Administrator John Bohenko.

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