BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — Battle Creek Police Chief Shannon Bagley will assume the role of interim director for both city fire and police services, effective Monday, Sept. 16.
The decision follows a thorough department review that determined a leadership change was necessary to better align with the city’s performance goals and objectives.
“We thank Bill Beaty for his service and contributions to the department during his tenure as fire chief,” said City Manager Rebecca Fleury. “I’m confident this change will lead to new opportunities for growth and professional development within the department.”
The Battle Creek Fire Department has a workforce of 82 employees who service 44 square miles and respond to more than 9,000 calls annually.
Bagley, who was appointed chief of police for Battle Creek in June 2023, does not expect the change to impact emergency response operations while the city assesses next steps.
“Our city has an incredible team of firefighters, including five highly capable battalion chiefs who I will continue to entrust with leading daily fire operations,” Bagley said.
The city commission workshop on fire station proposals we be held as scheduled on Tuesday, Sept. 17, beginning at 5 p.m., in the city commission chambers.
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