Politics & Government

Bath Township Fire Chief will Retire

Chief Jim Paulett will move on after 37 years with the department.

The retirement of Fire Chief James Paulett was announced at a special trustees' meeting Monday. Paulett, who has 37 years with the department, will step down March 15.

Paulett's interest in the department began when he was working as a janitor for Bath Schools, Township Administator Bill Snow said. "He rose through the ranks, beginning as a volunteer. He still makes hundreds of emergency calls when he's off duty," Snow said. "He rarely misses a night call even now." 

The chief was active in the formation of the Bath Fire Department scuba team and was instrumental in the creation of the Stony Hill fire station, which covers the Montrose business district and is  jointly operated by Bath and Copley Township Fire Departments.

Find out what's happening in Fairlawn-Bathwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

He became a full-time firefighter in 1976 and became chief in 2000, following in the footsteps of his father, Tom Paulett.

Copley Township Fire Chief Michael Benson said Paulett was a great resource to him at the beginning of his career.

Find out what's happening in Fairlawn-Bathwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"I met Chief Paulett in 1989, when he was one of the instructors in my basic firefighting certification course," Benson said. "He has remained friendly, approachable and knowledgeable even after 22 years.  When I became the Fire Chief of the department next door he immediately offered his guidance and I treasure the wit and wisdom he gave me.  I hope he remains available in retirement to continue to guide (young chiefs)."

Bath Township will appoint an acting fire chief  before Paulett retires, while the township searches for his replacement.

Details on the job posting can be found here.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Fairlawn-Bath