New fire chief on job in NK

New Kent County’s search for a new fire chief has ended with the hiring of Richard A. Opett who began work yesterday (Jan. 16).

Before taking the New Kent job, Opett served as a fire/rescue battalion chief for Loudoun County, a position he had held since 2008, and as vice president of Federal and East Coast
Programs for Willdan Homeland Solutions. He is a 20-year firefighter and hazmat technician and a Gannon University graduate.

“As a second-generation fire fighter, I first caught the fire service bug growing up around my hometown fire department where my dad served as fire chief,” Opett said in a press release.

“At a very young age I knew I wanted to follow in his footsteps. I truly have a passion for fire fighting and administration, and I am ready to devote my time and experience to New Kent County,” he said.

“From the moment I first visited the area and met some of the personnel, I liked what I saw,” he went on. “The county leaders and emergency responders here are very dedicated and loyal to their community. New Kent is growing, and I am excited to take the fire department to the next level.”

County administrator Rodney Hathaway said the interview panel was impressed with the work Opett has done in the past, coming from a community that was experiencing residential growth similar to what New Kent has seen over the past decade.

“We feel that Rick will fit in well with the professional management team that we have in New Kent and look forward to working with him,” said Hathaway. “We know that the New Kent community will welcome Rick, his wife Lauren, and his two young sons to our county.”

Opett replaces Tommy Hicks who was dismissed last June. Since July, Lisa Baber, battalion chief of EMS, has served as interim fire chief.