FERRISBURGH — Ferrisburgh selectmen and former town fire chief Bob Jenkins, still an active officer of the Ferrisburgh Volunteer Fire Department, recently decided to step down from the selectboard.
Jenkins’ letter of resignation simply cites “personal reasons.” On Thursday, he said he enjoyed many aspects of his service on the board, but preferred to devote his time and energy to the fire department.
“I can get back to my firefighting, and that’s my life, anyway,” Jenkins said.
Jenkins has spent 50 years in the fire service, including 11 in Vergennes, and has taught at the state fire school. In 2010, Vergennes American Legion Post 14 honored him with its annual Community Service Award, primarily because of his work in the fire service.
Jenkins served two terms on the Ferrisburgh selectboard, including a one-year term beginning in 2003 when he was appointed by the board to fill a vacancy.
In 2006, selectmen again asked Jenkins to fill a vacancy, and he agreed. This time, with the building of the town’s new offices and community center under way, he decided to run for re-election in 2008 and was unopposed. In 2010, he ran again, defeating an opponent, 325-176.
Jenkins said he for the most part enjoyed his time on the selectboard, and definitely appreciated his fellow selectmen.
“They’ve got a great board,” he said. “They’re great people to work with.”
Selectmen were soliciting letters of interest in the opening through the end of last week, and are expected to make an appointment this month.