Embattled Princeton Fire Chief Ron Lawrence has announced his retirement.
"After careful consideration, I have decided to retire from the Princeton Fire and Rescue Department effective March 1, 2024. It has been an honor to serve the PFRD for almost 29 years as a firefighter, Captain, Assistant Chief and Fire Chief," he wrote in a letter to the city council.
His decision came after 33 of 36 firefighters voted 'no confidence' in him. They threatened to walk if he wasn't fired by Feb. 8, KARE reported.
Compromised gear with broken safety features, a lack of communication and billing issues with other townships were among the issues cited by firefighters.
Mayor Thom Walker told the standing-room only crowd at the city council meeting that Lawrence will have no say in fire department operations.
Lawrence was not at the meeting.
