The Lakeport Fire Department Board of Directors has appointed Rick Bergem to the position of Interim Fire Chief as the district’s current chief prepares to go to work in Ukiah. Fire Chief Doug Hutchison confirmed earlier this month that his final day at the district would be Friday, Feb. 15. Captain Rick Bergem, a 38-year veteran with the department, has been selected to take Hutchison’s place for a limited time as the district seeks a permanent chief.
Following the board’s announcement of his appointment, Bergem told the Record-Bee Tuesday that he hopes to be able to restore some stability to the department as it continues to struggle financially.
Bergem said he wants to “get our house in order and get back to provide the services the community has come to expect and deserve.”