Butler City Fire Chief George “Nick” Ban has retired.
In a written statement personally delivered to our newsroom, Ban says that he is retiring at the rank of chief after seeking legal counsel. The retirement is effective at midnight Saturday morning. This decision comes after Ban was notified by Butler Mayor Tom Donaldson Monday that he was being demoted to the rank of lieutenant for unspecified reasons.
With the potential of court action and ongoing animosity between Butler City Council members, Ban says that he “could not and will not, in all good conscience, be a part of such a threat to the well-being of the Department I love and have served for more than 25 years.”
Ban has already accepted an offer of employment that he will begin at his convenience but would not specify since the paperwork is still being finalized. Ban plans on honoring the commitments he has made to give educational presentations in his role as chief. He also plans to continue as Chairman of the City of Butler Parks, Recreation, Grounds and Facilities Authority.
Ban said he will attend the special City Council meeting to be held Wednesday (4/13) at 6 p.m. as a city resident.
Written by Ryan Saeler