Newton Citizen

Photo by Kristen Ralph

COVINGTON -- After more than 39 years, Covington Fire Department Chief Don Floyd is ready to hand over the keys to the fire truck.

Floyd has announced his retirement at the end of this year, but the wheels are already in motion to find a replacement.

"The application process has begun and will remain open until 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 1," Floyd said. "Anybody can apply who meets the qualifications."

The city of Covington posted an ad recently for the position that lists duties and responsibilities to include administration and coordination of the fire Department and overseeing budgeting, new equipment and personnel.

The ideal candidate would also have a bachelor's degree in public management, business administration, fire science technology, fire safety engineering or a related degree with college level courses in fire administration; 10 years high-level command experience; three of which must have been equivalent to captain or higher with a minimum of one year performing administrative work. The salary range is $62,296 to $83,491, depending on qualifications.

Floyd, who was appointed fire chief in 1999, said his last day with the department would be June 15, although his actual last date of employment would be Dec. 31.

"I have enough leave accrued for those days -- sick leave and annual leave," he said. "The city manager has asked me to remain on board for a couple of months during the transition period for the new chief. Hopefully, after the application process closes, it will probably take a week or so to make a job offer and then that will give me a couple of months to work with the new chief."

Floyd grew up around the Covington Fire Department. His father -- Rodney T. Floyd -- was the city's first paid fire chief and served as chief for 25 years from 1947 to 1972.

Floyd said he's very happy about the prospect of retirement.

"I'm very much looking forward to it," he said. "I'm planning on catching up on my life, spending time with my family and grandchildren."