Mountain Home Fire Chief Steps Down

Mountain Home Fire Chief Alan Bermensolo had this to say to his brothers at work.

"Come together, rebuild the brotherhood that's fractured right now, and move forward,"

There's been tension for months now between the city of Mountain Home and the Fire Department which has led to Alan leaving.  This all comes from Chief Bermensolo not writing up and suspend a firefighter for making a poor choice while handling a fire.

Back on February 23, 2016 it all started with the FedEx Fire when a delivery truck went up in flames.  Mayor  had received information that some of the firefighters had stolen belongings from the scene.

Mayor Sykes asked Chief Bermensolo to sign a notice of Proposed Personal Action against one of the employees.  Alan didn't see eye to eye with the mayor and felt a write-up and maybe a suspension would have been sufficient.

So now, after 38 years of serving the city of Mountain Home, Alan steps down.

After county prosecutors and investigators have gone through this case they've found that was not a criminal act of theft or burglary.  It's considered "salvage."

While I don't condone what did or did not happen I know one thing.  A man who served this great community was the real victim here.  A man who served bravely for almost four decades.  Chief Bermensolo... I have the highest of respect for you and what you stand for.  In the end, you showed again great character in standing for what's right and not backing down.  Protecting your boys.  Protecting them when they needed it and deserved it.  Thank you for your service!