GBMFD begins search for new chief

GREEN BAY – The Green Bay Police and Fire Commission (PFC) is preparing to begin a nationwide search for a new chief to lead the Green Bay Metro Fire Department (GBMFD), which serves Green Bay, Allouez and Bellevue, after it was announced Feb. 6 that Fire Chief Matthew Knott would step away from the position.

“After careful thought and reflection, Chief Knott made the personal decision to step down to prioritize what is best for his family,” a GBMFD press release stated. “Chief Knott extends his heartfelt gratitude to the Greater Green Bay community for the kindness, support, and sense of belonging he has felt over the past three years. He is deeply appreciative of the way the community welcomed him and his family, and he remains grateful for the opportunity to serve this community.”

“The City extends our sincere thanks to Chief Knott for his service and positive contributions during his tenure,” the release continued. “Most recently, he worked to secure a $5 million grant to support the construction of a new fire station. This reflects Chief Knott’s commitment to Green Bay Metro Fire and to our broader community and is worthy of our thanks and appreciation. We wish Chief Knott and his family the very best for the future.”

The PFC expects the process to select a new chief to take four to six months.

During the interim, the PFC has appointed Assistant Chief of Operations Ray Fuiten and Assistant Chief of Training, EMS and Support Services Eric Jeltema to serve as co-chiefs.
“Given the demonstrated results of the Green Bay Metro Fire Department, and its reputation as a leader in Fire and EMS services, we expect a large group of candidates from both inside and outside of the organization,” noted PFC President Rod Goldhahn.

“I am confident the citizens of Green Bay, Allouez and Bellevue will be well served by Chiefs Fuiten and Jeltema,” stated Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich. “We are fortunate to have their strong and consistent leadership within our fire department.”