Seneca names New Fire Chief

The City of Seneca announces that Charles Caudill, Jr., of Salem has been chosen as the new fire chief for the Seneca Fire Department. He has over 35 years’ experience. Caudill says he will look for opportunities in his new role to involve the fire department in activities that will open doors for collaborative public education. “We want to be visible in times of need when fire services are needed, as well as in times when education and training are needed. It’s a great opportunity for us to move out into the community and be an active partner in fire prevention education in our own neighborhoods,” said Caudill. The City of Seneca’s fire department is led by its fire chief who oversees 24 uniformed firefighters. The Seneca Fire Department services over 16,000 residents and businesses in the Seneca Fire District. Seneca Mayor Dan Alexander thanked all of the finalists who vied for the position, and had words of praise for William Merritt who has served as interim fire chief since the retirement of Chief Oliver. “Will accepted the challenge of temporarily leading the department and in his short time as chief, has had significant impact on the department. We sincerely thank him for stepping in, and for the great job he has done,” said Mayor Alexander. The exact date of Caudill’s arrival as new chief will be announced when all pre-employment screenings have been completed.