Anderson named new MFD chief

by Beth Kraft

To start off the new year, the Mondovi Fire Department will welcome a new fire chief.

Following a recent vote by MFD members, longtime department member Steve Anderson was tabbed for the promotion.

Current chief Dennis Brion, a 50-year MFD member, announced several months ago that he plans to hang up his fire suit at the end of 2014.

Brion announced the MFD’s decision to hand off oversight to Anderson at the Mondovi City Council’s Dec. 9 meeting.

“He is very qualified to take the reins,” said Brion of Anderson.

A 35-year fire department member and life-long Mondovi resident, Anderson has served as assistant chief for the past 26 years.

“It’s going to be a big challenge,” said Anderson of filling Brion’s shoes.

Brion has agreed to stay on with the department into next year to help with the transition at Anderson’s request.

Anderson has been an employee of the Mondovi School District for the past four years. Prior to that, he worked for the city’s Super America location for 38 years.

He will serve a two-year term as MFD Chief in accordance with terms voted on by department members.