Merrill takes heat but wins Oak Harbor fire chief’s job
A rare scene unfolded at the Oak Harbor City Council meeting Tuesday night as audience members applauded, hugged and shook hands following a decision by the council. By a surprise 4-3 vote, the council members approved the confirmation of Ray Merrill as the next fire chief. It appeared during the discussion that there weren’t enough votes to confirm the mayor’s controversial appointment, but Councilman Bob Severns apparently changed his mind in favor of hiring Merrill.
– PUB DATE: 3/24/2012 1:25:29 AM – SOURCE: Whidbey News-Times