The Town of Saugeen Shores has promoted a familiar face to lead its fire department.
Rob Atkinson has been named the Town's new Director of Fire Services and Fire Chief. Atkinson's history with the department stretches back more than two decades, beginning as a volunteer firefighter in January 2003 before joining the Town full-time in 2006.
Since then, he has served in a number of roles, including Fire Prevention Officer and, most recently, Deputy Chief, a position he has held since June 2022.
The Town says Atkinson brings "more than 23 years of experience in Fire Services" and "extensive knowledge and expertise" to the position. He is set to assume the role on June 22, pending formal appointment by council on July 6.
The appointment comes as current Fire Chief Ed Melanson prepares to leave Saugeen Shores for a new position with the City of Niagara Falls.
In announcing the change, the Town praised Melanson's leadership over the past four years, saying he "brought about remarkable change within the Town's Fire Department" and helped build a volunteer fire service that "stands as one of the very best in Ontario."
