The members of the Damariscotta Fire Department and The Massasoit Engine Company elected veteran firefighter John Roberts fire chief at their annual meeting Jan. 8.
Roberts has been a Damariscotta firefighter since joining the department in 1999 at the age of 18. He has served as a captain, training officer and deputy chief, the position he held at the time of the election.
“It’s a big honor for me to accept and I’m happy to serve the town,” Roberts said.
The Damariscotta Board of Selectmen has the authority to officially appoint Roberts to the position, which it will likely do later this month.
Roberts, an electrical engineer with Supervisor of Shipbuilding in Bath, said he plans to “stay on the same path” charted by Neil Genthner, the town’s fire chief for 10 years. Genthner announced last month that he would not run for re-election.
“He’s done an amazing job and I really see him as a role model and aspire to what he’s done and what he’s accomplished,” Roberts said.
The department otherwise re-elected its current slate of officers. First Assistant Chief Jon Pinkham, Second Assistant Chief Josh Pinkham and Foreman of the Pumpers Rob Genthner will continue to serve in their posts.
Capt. Steve O’Bryan was re-elected clerk and former Fire Chief Bill Brewer was re-elected treasurer.
Jim Hall will serve as deputy chief, a position appointed by the fire chief.
Roberts is the son of The Lincoln County News Publisher Chris Roberts and sports reporter Paula Roberts, also of Damariscotta.
