CLOVIS (KMJ) — “A new adventure” is how the outgoing Clovis Fire Chief describes his move to Midwest. After being the Chief of Clovis Fire since 2013, Michael Despain is now taking on a new role in Nebraska.
“It’s kind of bittersweet to leave the Central Valley”, he admitted. “I’ve been here for almost 30 years now”.
His new position will be familiar, as he’s going to be the Fire Chief there too. Michael Despain will be overseeing the 300 member team of Lincoln’s Fire Department.
“New state, and a new community with new people”, continues Despain. “My daughter will be attending the university there and so we’re bringing family with us as we go there”.
He adds that Lincoln’s lifestyle and culture is what attracted him to it, and he intends to bring the strategies he’s learnt in the Central Valley to the people of Nebraska’s capital city.
His replacement will be John Binaski. He was previously the Clovis Fire’s Deputy Chief, and has over 25 years of fire service experience.
“We are losing a great asset with Chief Despain’s departure”, reveals City Manager Rob Woolley. “But I have complete confidence in Chief Binaski’s ability of leading the great men and women of the Clovis Fire Department in the coming years”.
Chief Michael Despain’s last day with Clovis Fire Department is Friday July 15th.
Hear the story from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
