Originally posted Wed, 2009-06-24 23:32
NSBNEWS.net video by Sera Frederick.The New Smyrna Beach City Commission said "thanks" In June to retiring Fire Chief Tim Hawver, who received a standing ovation.
NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- Tim Hawver, New Smyrna Beach's fire chief for 12 years and a firefighter for parts of four decades, was recognized Tuesday night by the City Commission, less than a week after announcing his retirement.
Hawver, 64, said he never planned on being fire chief, but rather simply wanted to serve his native city and provide for his family when he was hired in 1976, assuming the top post in 1997.
"It's always been a pleasure to serve my home town," said Hawver, a 1963 graduate of New Smyrna Beach High School. "Firefighting is a team effort and you can see that the team is here," Hawver said of a dozen firefighters and their family members, who joined his family for his farewell recognition from the commission.
Hawver received a standing ovation from the 60-plus people in the meeting room. Interim City Manager Khalid Resheidat praised Hawver as a "first class citizen, a first class fireman, a first class employee."
In his notice of retirement, effective Aug. 30, to Resheidat, Hawver wrote: "I am a blessed man in many ways and serving the citizens in the city I love for over 32 years has been a major blessing in itself... I wish nothing but the best for the City of New Smyrna Beach and our citizens as I begin another chapter of my life by being able to dedicate more personal time to my God, wife and family."
Hawver is paid $90,0000 annually. He is expected to be replaced by Deputy Fire Chief Dave McAllister.