VALPARAISO FIRE CHIEF SUSPENDED

Valparaiso Fire Chief Mark Norris has been suspended by Mayor Brent Smith who notified Norris he was being placed on paid administrative leave pending a hearing after the Mayor said he had lost confidence in his ability to guide the Fire Department. Norris was ordered to surrender all city property, including badges, radios and vehicles. The Mayor declined to discuss additional reasons for his decision. Norris has served as fire chief for 10 years, and was assistant chief before taking the top job. Niceville Fire Chief Tommy Mayville has been appointed to oversee the Fire Department in his absence.