Oskaloosa Fire Chief Mark Neff Retires
Oskaloosa Fire Chief Mark Neff working a structure fire. (file photo)
Oskaloosa, Iowa – Oskaloosa Fire Chief Mark Neff stood at the podium during Monday night’s Oskaloosa City Council meeting, informing the Council of his impending retirement.
Neff came to serve the City of Oskaloosa initially as a reserve firefighter.
After the retirement in 2008 of then Chief Francis Glandon, Neff decided to apply. “I wasn’t sure at the time I submitted my application if I really wanted to do it [fire chief]. But I knew if I didn’t, I’d probably regret it. It was something I wanted to try to do.”
“You gave me that opportunity in 2009,” Neff said to the Council, saying it was one of the best days of his life.
During his time as Chief, Neff has helped to lower Oskaloosa insurance rating or ISO from a 6 to a 3. That reduction helps area homes and businesses enjoy lower insurance costs.
During his time as Chief, Neff oversaw the construction of Oskaloosa’s new fire station, after their other building became unsafe. “Without your support, it wouldn’t [have] happened.”
“Since I’ve been Fire Chief, you’ve always given us what we’ve needed,” Neff said to the Council. “You’ve managed somehow to figure out a way to make it work. On behalf of my staff, I’d like to thank you.”
“A few months ago, an opportunity came across my radar,” Neff told the Council. “I looked it over, and I realized it was much like the position of Fire Chief. If I didn’t take this opportunity, and at least move toward it, I’d wonder what if.”
Oskaloosa Fire Chief Mark Neff talks with former Oskaloosa Fire Chief Frank Glandon about the aerial apparatus that was just delivered to firefighters in Oskaloosa. (file photo)
“So, I went for it,” added Neff of his application to the Iowa State Fire Marshall’s Office, where he accepted a position with the Division of Training with the State Fire Marshall’s Office.
“Oskaloosa is my home,” said an emotional Neff, who was then honored with a standing ovation from the Council and those in attendance.
“You weren’t supposed to do that,” Neff joked.
“I’m never going to forget how the community has treated me with the utmost respect. Same with all the Council that I’ve served with.”
“My sincere hope is that I have done the same for you folks.”
“Again, it’s a little bittersweet, but I think it’s time,” said Neff in closing.
Neff will have served Oskaloosa nearly 24 years when he retires as Chief on October 17th, 2019.
