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New fire chief takes command in Brattleboro

Jay Symonds says reception from the department has been ‘phenomenal’

BRATTLEBORO-Jay Symonds has taken on the job of Brattleboro Fire Department chief after being sworn in April 1.

"I know we're facing some challenges, but its my intent to be part of the solution to these challenges," the new chief said by phone on Monday, his first day on the ground.

The former lieutenant of the Manlius Fire Department in upstate New York said he found out about the job through Town Clerk Hilary Francis, his sister-in-law, but he has been actively looking to realize one of his career goals - to serve as a fire chief.

"Every time a job opens up, I look at the town, and the people, and I watched all the Selectboard meetings," he said.

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