HALIFAX: After over eight years of service, Ken Stuebing, Executive Director and Fire Chief of Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE), has announced his retirement from a career in public safety.
Chief Stuebing’s last day will be Dec. 1, 2025.
Deputy Chief Dave Meldrum will assume the role of Acting Executive Director and Fire Chief of HRFE until the hiring process for the permanent position has been completed.
“On behalf of the municipality, we thank Chief Stuebing for his service and leadership over the years and wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” said Brad Anguish, Acting Chief Administrative Officer.
ADVERTISEMENT:
Mayor Andy Fillmore said he extended his appreciation to Chief Stuebing for his eight years of dedicated service to Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency.
“During his tenure, Chief Stuebing led our firefighters through critical emergencies, including the 2023 Upper Tantallon and Hammonds Plains wildfire,” said Fillmore
The hiring of a new Chief will follow the municipality’s standard process for senior management appointments.
Bill Moore, the Commissioner of Public Safety, will lead a national search to hire a new Executive Director and Fire Chief of HRFE.
“It has been an honour and privilege to serve alongside hundreds of dedicated and passionate HRFE members,” said Chief Steubing. “Each day, your commitment to protecting our communities and striving to make things better has been inspiring.”
ADVERTISEMENT:
The Halifax Professional Firefighters also issued a statement on Stuebing’s retirement.
“The Halifax Professional Fire Fighters have expressed serious concerns about the leadership of
Ken Stuebing and the behaviour and performance of several senior managers,” they said in the statement.
“We feel significant changes in personnel are vital to redefining the culture of HRFE
management and putting our fire service on the right path for the future.
“We hope Chief Stuebing’s retirement is the first step in a thorough review of senior management at HRFE.”
