A third-generation firefighter has been chosen as Centerville’s new fire chief.
At its March 12 meeting, Centerville Town Council unanimously approved Andy Aughe as Centerville Fire/Rescue’s next leader.
Councilor Gary Holbert said those reviewing the applications had “an extraordinarily talented group of people with credentials that’s unbelievable” to consider.
Aughe (pronounced “oy”), has been part of CF/R for 13 years and previously served as the department’s emergency medical services coordinator to lead that side of its operations.
“It’s a different leadership role, but I’m up for the challenge,” Aughe said of leading all aspects of the department.
He said he plans “to put a good team of officers under me to bring the department to where it should be.”
Aughe is a Centerville native and 2011 Centerville Senior High School graduate.
His father, Darin Aughe, was a member of CF/R for more than 30 years, and grandpa Nick Aughe retired as assistant chief after about 20 years in the department.
“I’ve been around it my whole life,” Aughe said. “I was born into it.”
He said small fire departments are “better if the family aspect is at the center.”
Aughe has years of experience with emergency medical services. He has been an emergency medical technician for 12 years, with more than five years as an EMT basic for Reid Health.
Aughe’s term began immediately and ends Dec. 31, 2027.
Councilor Josh Tudor said he wanted all CF/R members to know that their community appreciates them.
Tudor acknowledged the “tough times” that some fire members are facing and asked them to reach out with needs.
A version of this article appeared in the March 20 2024 print edition of the Western Wayne News.