Everett Fire Chief Resigns After Just 4 Months

Editor’s Update 8:40 PM: At tonight’s meeting of the Everett City Council there was no public mention of Chief Hick’s resignation by either the Mayor or any city council member. Late this morning King County Fire District 20 issued this press release about Hick’s hiring.

Editor’s Update 12:19 PM: Everett Fire Chief Eric Hicks gives 4 days notice in his resignation letter to Everett Mayor. Here is his letter to both the Mayor and another letter to staff…

On January 11th Eric Hicks was sworn in as Chief of the Everett Fire Department. Hicks was named Chief by Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson in November of 2016 after then-chief Murray Gordon announced plans last September to retire after a 40 year career in the Everett Fire Department.

Hicks is leaving Everett to become Fire Chief of King County Fire District 20. That’s the department where Hicks began his career in the fire service. Hicks joined the Everett Fire Department in 1999. Most recently Hicks served as Fire Marshal and as one of the Deputy Chiefs. He is the first African American to lead the Everett Fire Department.

Hicks first told his top staffers weeks ago that he was considering an offer with District 20 and has been going through the interview process, contract negotiations and finally passed a physical before formally turning in his letter of resignation.

Hicks resignation leaves a void at the top of the Everett Fire Department and at least one Deputy Chief that was promoted when Hicks became Chief will be stepping down and returning to an Engine Company.

Here is the official announcement from the City of Everett…

Eric Hicks has notified City leaders that he has accepted a position as chief of the Skyway Fire Department.

“It has been an honor to serve Everett Fire and this incredible community for the past 18 years,” said Hicks. “I began my career in the fire service with Skyway, and I am looking forward to returning to the department as its chief.”

Hicks held a variety of roles during his time with Everett Fire, from fire inspector and investigator to assistant chief and fire marshal. He was appointed chief following Murray Gordon’s retirement in January.

The Mayor will make an interim appointment to serve as chief for the remainder of the year. Following the mayoral election this fall, City staff will work with the new administration to fill the position on a permanent basis.