It is of utmost importance to the Seeley Lake Rural Fire District and its Board of Trustees that we are not only providing the best emergency services possible to our community, but that the community we serve has faith in the services and the people who provide it! We strive to honor and maintain that faith through rigorous screening of our members and employees as well as providing exceptional training and the best tools possible.
It has come to our attention that the credentials of our current Chief, Michael Greer have been called into question. It is important that our community have faith in those chosen to serve and protect them and we want to reassure this community that Michael Greer brings impeccable credentials to his position as Chief. While his background was discussed at our open board meetings prior to his hiring, we realize not all members of the community were able to be there. So, to dispel any misinformation and derogatory social media postings from those not on the department, that may cause our community to take pause, here is a brief summary of just a few of the professional credentials Chief Greer brings to his position.
A lifetime of emergency services and healthcare experience with 26 years of EMS services and nine years of fire service. Certified as a critical care paramedic, an Associate Degree in Paramedicine, a Bachelor’s Degree in health sciences (Suma Cum Laude), and an MD degree with Deans List status. He has managed several emergency services companies, owned and operated his own successful EMS training company and managed a multimillion dollar government health care contract in Afghanistan with 27 clinics and over 130 Medics, PA-C’s, Physicians and support staff. His background and credentials were reviewed by the Board of Trustees, the decision to hire him was unanimous and he continues to have our support.
We would also like to congratulate Chief Greer on recently obtaining his residency in family medicine! He was awarded his first pick to a high demand program which had well over 1000 applicants for only two available positions. He took the job as Chief here in Seeley as an interim position while awaiting news of his residency. Obtaining a residency is never a guarantee and while Chief Greer had considered staying on as Chief here in Seeley Lake should he not have been awarded his residency, we know his goal and intent was always to move on to a residency and we are happy for him in his success!
Over the next couple of months, Chief Greer will be working closely with his incoming replacement to ensure a smooth and successful transition. We are excited about all the positive changes that have taken place in the short time he has held the position and appreciate his tireless efforts! The District Board directed Chief Greer to fix the problems, and complete numerous tasks and correct issues within his interim term. This required changes and implementation to help the department grow. This including new policies, operating manuals for compliance with state laws. Risk management not limited to, including HIPPA compliance, VFIS Harassment policies, OSHA compliance with Bloodborne Pathogens and other safety concerns. Computer and security along with a new informative website. Also, facilitated necessary purchases and replacements of both firefighting equipment, update communications, medical equipment, compliance with DEA narcotics tracking and storage, and significant changes in safety and protective gear, new turnouts gear, SCBA’s recertified and repairs.
Additionally, Chief Greer in his off time (free of charge) offered invaluable advanced training. This training accounted for 76 hours of instruction and hands on experience and totaled 825 man-hours of participation to the volunteers and staff. Including general fire training, Emergency Medical Technician recertifications and CEs, nine enhanced MT State Certifications for overdose medications, we have two current volunteers IV certified and now seven more trained for upcoming certifications. A 96 hour Fire Fighter 1 course is in progress as well. 10 new volunteers (three new applicants) have joined since Chief Greer has come on board with several in the wings. These efforts ensuring our dedicated volunteers are ready for the tasks to our citizens.
In moving on as planned, we are also excited to have Fire Chief Dave Lane coming on board! We are confident he will continue with the momentum of positive improvements and growth. Chief Lane has followed the progress and events and looks forward to continuing in Chief Greer’s efforts positively.
After screening more than 30 highly qualified Fire Chief applicants, Dave stood out and was selected. He also brings impeccable credentials to the position. He is a paramedic with 33 years of experience in emergency services. He has worked extensively in the fire service as well as directed, developed and established EMS and fire services. He has numerous certifications as a trainer in both fire and EMS disciplines and over 25 years of teaching experience.
By hiring people with credentials like Chief Greer and Chief Lane and through the quality care, services and ongoing training of our dedicated volunteers, the Fire District Board of Trustees and volunteers look forward to continuing to see the Fire District provide quality emergency services that inspire the confidence of the community we serve!
Personally, I look forward to assisting Fire Chief Lane, employees and the volunteers in any way I can moving forward. I also want to ensure the citizens of our incredible community, they have my devoted efforts in the forward progression of the Fire and medical services.
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