After leading the Harbor Beach Fire Department for more than a quarter century, J.P. Lermont has decided to retire from his position as fire chief.
Lermont’s decision to step down was precipitated by some health concerns — concerns which seem to under control at this time.
He will continue with the department in other capacities.
“I’ll remain as a firefighter for a while, but I won’t be doing the heavy duties," he said.
The longtime firefighter has put in 40 years of service to the department. He was born and raised in Harbor Beach, and joined the department shortly after graduating from Harbor Beach High School in 1978.
“I was influenced by my dad, who was on the fire department," he said. "He was a firefighter and was the assistant chief during his firefighting career.”
Lermont is the son of the late John and Lexie Lermont.