By Angie Rolheiser/ CJVR

UPDATE: Wakaw fire chief out

Nov 9, 2018 | 12:46 PM

After 38 years on the job, the fire chief in Wakaw has been relieved of his duties.

The town gave Gene Markowsky his notice earlier this week, according to Chief Administrative Officer Lois Gardner.

“The town of Wakaw will be moving forward in a new direction with our fire department concerning recruiting and daily operations,” Gardner said. “Council will require a few months to organize and initiate the new changes.”

Since the notice was given to Markowsky, two senior firefighters have resigned from the department.

In a note to Angie Rolheiser and others, Gene Markowsky said “At some point I may have lots to say, but now it’s likely best to say little.”

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Markowsky said in the note that his dismissal “wasn’t a shock, however, everyone in our hall, including myself, have to sift through the info to see where to put our and MY steps.”

“I know that myself and many others have given heart and soul, sacrificing family and massive income loss to look after everyone in our halls, in our communities across the province and beyond, and to come running to those who may need help. With no strings attached.” Markowsky added that he has nothing but pride in what they have achieved and how they have become recognized.

“One last thing… in hundreds of [departments] the chiefs (sic) job is to run through flames of hell to look after his or her firefighter family but in reality no one looks after the chief.”