The City of Wayland has hired its first-ever full-time fire chief.
Jon Timmers officially reached that milestone Monday night after a vote of approval by the City Council. Beginning in February 2026, he will command an annual salary of $95,000.
Timmers was appointed interim chief after the resignation of Jim Stoddard for medical reasons in September 2024.
“Jon’s done a phenomenal job for us,” said City Manager Erik Wilson.
Mayor Jennifer Antel told TImmers, “I’m thrilled you’re willing to come on board.”
Though Wayland has had nearly a century of fire chiefs and a fire department, this is the first time its fire chief is a full-time employee. He also will be chief for Wayland Township. Dan Miller is deputy chief for the Yankee Springs Township Fire Department.
Wayland Township, through a long-standing agreement, will pick up 52 percent of the cost for Timmer’s ages.
In other business at Monday’s meeting, the City Council:
• Was told by City Engineer Mickey BIttner of Wightman & Associates that a public meeting on the proposed street projects for Lorene and Locust streets attracted about half dozen citizens. Bittner estimated that the project will begin next year and will take between 12 and 14 weeks.
- Approved a proposal from DeHaan Flooring & Tile Covering to install carpeting throughout City Hall at a cost of $11,999.24.
- Went into closed session to discuss the evaluation of City Manager Erik Wilson.
