Battle Creek dismisses fire chief, cites need for better performance [Video]

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — The Battle Creek Fire Department is without a chief for the second time in three years after the city dismissed Bill Beaty from the role Monday.

Citing a need for better alignment with the city’s performance goals and objectives, City Manager Rebecca Fleury says the decision was driven by a recent department review.

“We thank Bill Beaty for his service and contributions to the department during his tenure as fire chief,” said Fleury. “I’m confident this change will lead to new opportunities for growth and professional development within the department.”

Beaty spent less than two years as Battle Creek’s fire chief, starting on October 17, 2022. He came to the city after serving in Divernon, Illinois, Garden City, Kansas, Springfield, Illinois, and Finney County, Kansas.

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