Fire union requests Maricopa’s interim chief take permanent job

Maricopa’s local fire union has requested that interim Fire Chief Brady Leffler be considered for the department’s permanent fire chief position.

Leffler took over the department’s top post in September after former Fire Chief Wade Brannon stepped down. Brannon previously told InMaricopa.com he stepped down because an individual with more experience operating in large cities should fill the role.

The city council approved a request on Sept. 17 from interim City Manager Trisha Sorensen to enter into an employment contract with Leffler. According to a city staff report, Leffler agreed to serve in the interim position while the city searched for a permanent fire chief.

According to a recent letter addressed to the city council, the Professional Firefighters of Maricopa, Local 4561, voted Oct. 15 to “move forward with a formal endorsement and unified backing” of Leffler.

Union vice president Carlos Schulz said the vote was unanimous and the letter was sent the following day.

The letter states Leffler came to the city’s fire department during “an extremely difficult time.”

“Turmoil, confusion, misdirection and the lack of leadership was overwhelming,” the letter states. “By applying his knowledge, experience, creativity and education, Chief Leffler was able to mitigate some of the most critical deficiencies quickly and efficiently.”

The letter goes on to say that in speaking with members of the department, Leffler was able to create a list of immediate needs and long-term goals for the agency.

“These ideas have improved the safety, efficiency and service delivery needs of our customers, the citizens and visitors of Maricopa,” it states.