— by Lin McNulty —

Following an executive session of the Board of Fire Commissioners today, it was announced that Fire Chief Mik Preysz has been placed on administrative leave while OIFR conducts an administrative review.

“Based on internal member feedback,” the release states, “OIFR is undergoing an administrative review. A consultant is working with the Orcas Island Board of Fire Commissioners during this process. The Fire Chief is on administrative leave to help facilitate the review.

“More information will be announced as it becomes available from the consultant and the Board of Commissioners.”

Following the executive session, there was no further information available on the circumstances, nor any indication who the consultant might be. The pending agreement with the consultant is expected to be finalized tomorrow, when the Fire Commissioners again meet at 10:45 a.m., March 16, at Eastsound Fire Station in a public meeting.

The Board stressed that there will be no interruptions in the service level we have come to expect. “We pledge to our community that we will continue to provide the highest level of service in all areas of emergency response. Our dedication to our neighbors as a community, both in patient care and fire/hazard mitigation, is unwavering and will continue with the same professionalism during this process.”

Scott Williams and Bryce Hamilton have been named Acting Deputy Chiefs.

Mik Preysz was not available for comment.

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