BETHLEHEM, Pa. — A familiar face has taken over as the leader of the Bethlehem Fire Department.
Michael Reich, who’s served with the city fire force for 24 years but holds 36 years of total experience in the field, received a unanimous vote of approval from City Council on Tuesday.
A majority of the members emphasized that Reich came before them “highly recommended.”
Reich will be sworn in 10 a.m. Wednesday at City Hall.
Fire Chief Warren Achey has retired and Mayor J. William Reynolds on Tuesday announced Reich as his recommended nominee.
Achey, the chief since 2016, started his service in Bethlehem in 1992.
City officials at the council meeting later on Tuesday wished Achey well for his retirement, thanking him for a multidecade career with BFD.
'Highly recommended'
While serving Bethlehem, Reich has been a firefighter, hazardous material team technician, EMT, fire inspector, lieutenant, captain, fire investigator, plan examiner and chief fire inspector, according to the mayor’s office.
“When I recited my oath as a firefighter and in subsequent promotions, I promised to serve and protect the citizens of the City of Bethlehem with fidelity and have strived to do so,” Reich said in a news release issued by the city.
“I look to develop the strengths of our officers and staff and to make a difference in the City of Bethlehem.”
“When I recited my oath as a firefighter and in subsequent promotions, I promised to serve and protect the citizens of the City of Bethlehem with fidelity and have strived to do so."Bethlehem Fire Chief nominee Mike Reich
Last year the firefighters' union, International Association of Fire Fighters Local 735, issued a vote of no-confidence against Achey.
A department survey in April 2023 showed a majority of firefighters experienced a decline in mental health and suffered from a lack of adequate resources and equipment, among other issues.
Union President Luis Jimenez said the members of Local 735 were “extremely pleased” with Reich being chosen as their new leader.
“We have seen the amazing work Chief Reich has done in our department over his career and are proud of his dedication in the department and as a member of Local 735,” Jimenez said in an emailed statement.
“We look forward to working with him as he takes on his new, well-deserved position.”
"We have seen the amazing work Chief Reich has done in our department over his career and are proud of his dedication in the department and as a member of Local 735."Luis Jimenez, IAFF Local 735 president
“During his 24 years as a firefighter for the City of Bethlehem, Mike Reich has been a leader,” Mayor J. William Reynolds said.
“Passion, honesty, and integrity are but a few of the qualities he has exhibited during his career. Mike will be a great chief and make a strong leadership team with our Deputy Chief Craig Baer.”
The full-time city fire department has 106 members and 27 employees within the EMS division.
Another fond farewell
Jeffrey Stiffinella, another member of the Bethlehem Fire Department, officially retired Tuesday after 20 years of service to the city.
