MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, Mich. — Muskegon Heights Fire Chief Chris Dean retired after almost three decades with the department and more than 10 years as chief.
"I would say it's bittersweet, but it's actually very exciting. Where the department itself is in a great moment, we have some great incoming leadership that's moving up," now-retired Chief Dean told 13 ON YOUR SIDE.
The longtime firefighter rescued people out of burning buildings on three separate occasions, worked as a fire investigator and helped improve the city in ways unrelated to fire, too.
"Everything from the photovoltaic solar array that's on the rooftop of five, different city buildings creating clean energy in Muskegon Heights and reducing the cost of electricity to the citizens who pay taxes," said Dean.
He added, "it's the little things that make the big differences. And that's what I'm proud of is all the little things that I was able to put together during my tenure here."
Now, he said he's looking forward to more time with his children, but isn't done helping his community.
"I'll be continuing my involvement with certain civic organizations; Boys and Girls Club, Muskegon Area Promise Zone."
An interim deputy chief and interim chief are already in place.
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