Wayland Fire Chief James Stoddard submitted his resignation to the City Council at its Monday night meeting.
Though he specifically did not give health issues as a reason, he said in his letter, the action was because he was “unable to act fully in his capacity.”
Stoddard took over as fire chief for the retiring Joe Miller in September 2021.
He was hospitalized at Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids after suffering a heart attack in April while he was driving to attend an event. His passengers quickly came to his aid and saved his life, applying CPR.
The Wayland/Yankee Springs Fire Department escorted him home after his hospital stay and rehabilitation to show continued support in his recovery.
The department’s Facebook account said, “Today marked the 68th day he was in the hospital and are glad to have him back in the community. At this time we still ask that his and his family’s privacy be respected and for continued prayers and well wishes.”
Stoddard has been owner-operator of the C. Stoddard & Sons Oil Co.
Mayor Jennifer Antel Monday night said acting chief Lt. Jeff Smith will continues in his present capacity, at least until the city welcomes a new city manager.
