Strawberry Point Fire Department in operation under interim fire chief

The Strawberry Point Fire Department is now operating under an interim fire chief after the department voluntarily decided to disband about two weeks ago.

In a July 11 Facebook post, the department cited “lack of support, failure to communicate and personal bias” from the City Council as the reason behind its decision to disband.

But Deno Andrews, the Strawberry Point city administrator, announced Thursday on Facebook that the fire department was back in action under Acting Chief Dean Courtnage. Andrews could not be reached for comment Friday morning at his office.

During the time that the Strawberry Point Fire Department was inactive, mutual aid partners and local departments covered fire services for the city. Ambulance services were not affected.

In a previous statement, Andrews said the city is working with the fire department to understand their grievances and continue fire service in the city.

“We are committed to finding a path forward that strengthens our community. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time and encourage you to remain confident in the continued safety and security of Strawberry Point,” Andrews said.

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