New Wellington Fire/EMS Chief has 50 years of fire experience, hopes to address issues
WELLINGTON, Kan. (KSNW) — Wellington’s Former Fire Chief Tim Robben has officially resigned, according to the city manager. Paramedics from the department previously spoke out about his lack of a fire certificate. A new interim chief, with 50 years of experience, started Monday.
Interim Chief James Woydziak will be allowed to work 1,000 hours in his part-time leadership role. He believes he understands the importance of bringing unity to a department that has undergone months of scrutiny.
Woydziak has spent decades responding to calls and leading fire departments. He served as a chief in Emporia, Manhattan, and most recently, Butler County.
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“The fire service has a long history of traditions and things, and I can see why people felt strongly about that,” said Woydziak.
Just days into the job, he said, he is working on addressing key issues faced by the dual department.
“We’ve got a shortage now, we’ve got openings now for paramedics and EMTA’s and we’re sending people to training, we’ve got to fill those positions,” said Woydziak.
Wellington City Manager Jeff Porter made the decision to bring Woydziak on and said it’s a full circle moment, as Woydziak started his career in Wellington in 1971.
“We’re excited to have him aboard. He comes with a wealth of experience,” said Porter.
His hope is to have Woydziak, who stepped out of retirement to take the role, be a key player in the search for a long-term chief.
“Another thing I wanted to look for is someone who could not only help us manage the organization while we’re in transition but also maybe help us form the core of the leadership,” said Porter.
Chief Woydziak hopes to steer the department in the right direction in the short time he’s at the helm.
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“I’ve been in a lot of fire departments. I’m aware of the history and culture, and I’m going to try and work on the budget, get some people hired, and get us back on track,” said Woydziak.
The paramedic, who spoke out against former Chief Robben, said she reapplied and was told she would not be allowed to return by the city manager.
Porter said he doesn’t comment on personnel matters. Additionally, KSN reached out to Robben, who did not respond to a request for comment.
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