New MA Chief's Top Priority: Keeping up with Tech

WAYLAND—Neil McPherson will be the town's next fire chief on July 1, pending successful contract negotiations with the town. He will replace David Houghton, who retires June 30 after 38 years on the force, the last four as chief.

Town Administrator Louise Miller recommended McPherson for the job. Last month, selectmen unanimously ratified the choice.

McPherson was also a finalist to become chief in Southborough, but that town last month instead chose Steve Achilles, fire chief in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

McPherson, 53, discussed his background with the Daily News, and his future plans for the department.

Background

McPherson combines years of experience in insurance and firefighting.

He worked 29 years for Chubb Insurance, until the company was sold three years ago. That is when he made the transition to the Wayland Fire Department, where he immediately stepped in as assistant chief.

A resident of Sherborn, McPherson has worked in that town's "on-call" fire department for 30 years, including more than 10 as chief.

He always wanted to be a full-time firefighter, and jumped at the chance to work in Wayland after Chubb was sold.

"It's a special group of people," McPherson said of the firefighting culture. "It's like family, and it's an exciting career."

Currently, McPherson is deputy chief in Sherborn, a job that pays a stipend. He is also a"call" firefighter in Ashland, and is paid for his hours worked. He said he will take a hard look at retaining both jobs if contract negotiations are successful in Wayland.

Future

McPherson said his top priority, if he becomes Wayland chief, is staying ahead of the constant technological changes in fire services.

A possibility of hydrogen cars in town is one consideration. There has been some interest in putting a hydrogen filling station in Wayland, McPherson said, but no official plans have been submitted to town officials.

If it happens, McPherson said he wants his department to work with the company that installs it to ensure maximum safety for residents.

Customer service is another emphasis, McPherson said. He hopes to receive grant money to train town employees and local businesses on safe operation of fire extinguishers.

Boosting the department's staffing is another goal. Two firefighters were hired in fiscal 2019, after the roster had remained at 25 since 1970.

McPherson hopes to hire two more to meet a surge in emergency calls.

Emergency responses totaled about 1,300 in fiscal 2018, compared to approximately 400 in 1985. Total department responses jumped to 3,500 in fiscal 2018, compared to 1,000 in 1980.

Management of the $1.8 million renovation of Station 2 at 145 Main St. is another of McPherson's goals. Town Meeting approved the funds last year.

McPherson praised Houghton, the current Wayland chief, calling him a "great mentor."

"I am lucky to potentially have the opportunity (to become Wayland fire chief)," McPherson said.

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