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Handshoe picks Jeremy McKinley for Kendallville fire chief
By: Tim Murray - Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Retiring Fire Chief Mike Riehm (left) looks on as Jeremy McKinley is introduced as his successor.

KENDALLVILLE – Kendallville Mayor Suzanne Handshoe introduced Jeremy McKinley as the city’s new fire chief this morning.

Handshoe says there is a lot to like about McKinley.

"His background and being an EMT, being a volunteer with us, knowing the community, knowing the people just really stood out for me. He has a passion for emergency services and he also has a background in organizational leadership so he'll be a good leader. Not just a good fire chief, he'll be an outstanding leader in my opinion, ready to take us to the next level."

McKinley and his brothers have a long history with Kendallville Fire Department and he has worked with Parkview EMS for a number of years.

"I started with the Kendallville Fire Department at the age of 16. Became a volunteer firefighter when I turned 18. And I've been doing it for the last 25 years. That career got me into the EMS where I've been a paramedic for Parkview Health for about 19 years now. And together I've been able to join and make both the systems work together for the EMS and the fire service."

McKinley will be sworn in December 31st with other city officials.

He replaces Chief Mike Riehm who is retiring after 43 years with the department.



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