Kelowna's fire chief stepping down

Castanet- Story: May 26, 2010 / 3:54 pm

Chief Rene Blanleil has left the Kelowna Fire Department after 18 years of service. The City of Kelowna and Chief Blanleil mutually agreed this was a good time for a change. “These decisions are never easy,” says Charlene Covington, Director of Human Resources. “We wish Rene all the best with his future endeavours.” Chief Blanleil has accomplished a lot in his 18 years at the Department, the last four as Fire Chief. His most recent accomplishment was overseeing the development of a 10 year strategic plan which will serve the community well into the future. “We’ve experienced incredible changes within the city and of course with that comes the need for the Fire Department to adapt,” says Rene Blanleil. “I’m proud of the part I’ve played at the Kelowna Fire Department over the years as a volunteer, firefighter, assistant Fire Chief and the last four years as Fire Chief. I am also proud of the recent adoption by Council of the department’s long-term strategic plan, which I developed with my team. Change can be good not just for me personally but also for the Fire Department. I think it’s time for a fresh perspective and I look forward to welcoming my successor.” Steve Kinsey has been appointed Acting Chief effective June 10. Kinsey retired from the Kelowna Fire Department in 2004 after 30 years of service the last 14 as Assistant Chief. A search for a new fire chief will commence immediately.
Castanet attempted to reach Chief Blanleil, however, messages were not returned.