The Chelsea Area Fire Authority has a new interim fire chief following the departure of Fire Chief Robert Arbini, whose separation agreement with CAFA was finalized June 14.
CAFA said it would respect the privacy of those involved and would not further comment on the employment matter.
On July 21, the CAFA Board appointed Jon Ichesco to serve temporarily as interim fire chief. Ichesco brings more than 30 years of experience as a firefighter, fire marshal and fire chief throughout Washtenaw County, and has strong ties to the Chelsea community.
“I have had the privilege of helping lead CAFA through a transition before, and I am honored to return and support the department during this important time,” Ichesco said. “I know this organization, I know the strength of its firefighters, and I believe deeply in the service they provide.”
Ichesco previously served as CAFA’s interim fire chief in 2016, following the retirement of former Chief Jim Payeur. The board selected Robert Arbini as permanent chief that December, with Arbini stepping into the role in early 2017.
Ichesco will work closely with the CAFA Board, command staff, firefighters and member communities during the initial transition period, the board said.
The board also plans to engage a professional recruiting firm to conduct a comprehensive search for CAFA’s next permanent fire chief. Additional information on the longer-term interim appointment and permanent recruitment process will be shared as decisions and timelines are finalized.
The board emphasized that the department’s core group of firefighters remains in place through the transition.
“This is an opportunity to support our firefighters and thoughtfully build CAFA’s next chapter,” said CAFA Board Chair George Merkel. “Our Board is committed to stability, transparency, and a careful leadership-selection process. We are also proud of the energy, optimism, and service within the department and confident in the team carrying CAFA forward.”
Fire protection and emergency response services remain fully operational, with no interruption in service. CAFA continues to serve the city of Chelsea and Lima, Lyndon, and Sylvan townships.
