City Council honors retiring Fire Chief Kimmerling with recognition
OBA Staff • September 6, 2023
Deputy Chief Jeff Smith steps up as Interim Fire Chief on Sept. 19th
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – After years of dedicated service, the City of Orange Beach Fire Department bids farewell to its esteemed Chief, Mike Kimmerling, who is set to retire later this month. In a heartfelt gesture of appreciation, the City Council presented Chief Kimmerling with a Certificate of Recognition during their recent council meeting. The community of Orange Beach stands testament to the enhanced safety and strength brought about under Chief Kimmerling's leadership. As the city prepares for this transition, Deputy Chief Jeff Smith has been appointed to take the helm as Interim Fire Chief, effective from September 19, 2023.
Press Release:
City of Orange Beach Fire Department Chief Mike Kimmerling is retiring later this month. The City Council recognized Chief Kimmerling with a Certificate of Recognition at tonight's council meeting. The city is stronger and safer thanks to Chief Kimmerling.
Deputy Chief Jeff Smith was approved by the council to serve as Interim Fire Chief, effective Sept. 19, 2023.
The Certificate of Recognition reads as follows:
- Whereas, the City of Orange Beach was incorporated as a town in 1984; and
- Whereas, Mike Kimmerling was initially hired by the City of Orange Beach in the Coastal Resources Department in 2015; and
- Whereas, he interviewed and was hired as Deputy Chief for the Orange Beach Fire Department in 2018 and became Fire Chief in December 2019; and
- Whereas, he previously served in the Bloomington Fire Department in Bloomington, IL for 27 years, serving his last five years as Fire Chief; and
- Whereas, he has shown true professionalism throughout his time with the city and exemplified servant leadership; he carried out his duties with integrity, compassion, and excellence towards the community he has served; and
- Whereas, some of his notable accomplishments are: lowering the city’s ISO rating; was instrumental in establishing the city’s transport EMS service; increased staffing of firefighters, training, fire prevention, and public education; implemented a salary scale to keep the department competitive within the fire service; contracted with Ono Island to establish a new station, apparatus, and manpower; started the process for a statewide mutual aid agreement that will bring fire and emergency medical assistance to Orange Beach after a disaster; improved the level of professionalism within the department and earned the respect of his peers across the state; and
- Now, therefore, on behalf of the Mayor and Council, we Honor and Recognize Chief Kimmerling for his Outstanding Leadership and Public Service for the City of Orange Beach and we wish him the best in his Future Endeavors.
Share this article w/ Friends...
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Two young men from Guatemala lost their lives in a traffic accident earlier this year in Foley, and the driver involved is now facing charges. The Foley Police Department has released details following an ongoing investigation. Officials said the deadly collision involved a motorized scooter...
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf Shores officials met for their regular city council session and covered a range of business affecting residents and future projects. The meeting featured both ceremonial moments and debates over policies that could shape local life. Council members balanced routine approvals...
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Sportfishing Club is preparing for the upcoming Kenny Vines Memorial Tournament, an annual event that attracts anglers from across the Gulf Coast. The tournament combines competitive fishing with community tradition, honoring the late Kenny Vines, a respected figure...
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley residents and business owners may soon notice some significant changes along Miflin Road, a key stretch for local commerce and daily travel. City officials are planning improvements that aim to smooth traffic, highlight safety, and give the area a fresh look. The project is designed to make
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The Gulf Shores Police are inviting residents to enjoy a morning of conversation and coffee with local officers. The event, Coffee with a Cop, gives community members the chance to meet police officers in a casual and friendly setting. Participants can use the time to ask questions, discuss
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — As the Gulf Coast transitions into the fall season, the week ahead offers a full slate of activities that reflect the region’s diverse blend of community spirit, live entertainment, and coastal culture. From trivia nights and music bingo to outdoor concerts, family-friendly attractions...
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – In a move that started in 2022 with a zoning change from single-family to planned unit development is starting to take effect along the beachfront in Orange Beach. A change in zoning from single-family allowed Turquoise Place to build a four-story parking garage directly east of the towers
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf State Park will welcome families and nature lovers to its annual Turtle Fest this month. The popular educational event returns to the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier in Gulf Shores. Visitors can learn about sea turtle conservation through interactive exhibits and activities. Multiple local
Magnolia Springs, Ala. — (OBA) — The annual Magnolia Run will return to Magnolia Springs in November. The popular community race takes runners through some of Baldwin County's most beautiful scenery. This year's event will raise money for a local group that helps homeless people. Race organizers expect hundreds of...
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Got it — The Foley City Council has adopted a $71.9 million General Fund budget for the 2026 fiscal year, taking a cautious approach to spending while continuing to prepare for rapid growth. City officials say the plan will help meet demand for services while maintaining financial reserves well...
