Brett Ogino’s career is on fire.
After 22 years with the District of Sicamous Fire Department, Ogino is now the first, full-time chief. That responsibility, however, nothing new as he’s acted as chief in a part-time capacity for the past 13 years, though this promotion will bring with it some added responsibilities and new digs as he’ll join the management team at the district office and will work hand-in-hand with operations manager Joe McCulloch. Now, while still overseeing and co-ordinating his crew, Ogino will be able to focus more on behind-the-scenes tasks such as recruitment and emergency preparedness.
The move to a full-time chief has actually been on council’s agenda – and in the budget – for a few years.
“It’s been a long time coming Brett, and this is a unanimous decision of council,” town manager Evan Parliament said during the official announcement.
This change came about as the result of an extensive, 100-page report from FireWise Consulting that offered 24-36 recommendations for the department, with the main one being to have a full-time chief.
Town manager Evan Parliament explained that this move is particularly important in small communities as they face a shortage of volunteer firefighters as people increasingly have to seek work out of town. That has put more pressure on local governments to keep a department presence in the community, which a full-time chief will accomplish.
“Now when something goes down, we have someone on-site,” Mayor Terry Rysz said. “Not out working in Salmon Arm.”
Ogino will step into his new role – and office – Monday, April 3.