Bethlehem appoints new fire chief, 11 months after union held no confidence vote on now-former leader

Bethlehem has a new fire chief, nearly one year after the city’s fire union demanded the ouster of its now-former chief.

In a unanimous vote Tuesday night, Bethlehem City Council appointed Michael Reich to lead the city’s fire department.

Reich has spent 24 years with the Bethlehem Fire Department and 36 years as a firefighter, in various roles including hazmat technician, emergency medical technician, lieutenant, captain and chief fire inspector.

During his remarks before City Council, Reich said he had never planned or envisioned leading the department, but did so because “someone needs to step up and lead.”

“I look forward to leading this department from the front by working with our firefighters, working with our union, working with our paramedics, and providing the best service to the city,” Reich said.

Former fire Chief Warren Achey, who had led the department since 2017 and has worked for the city since 1992, retired this year, according to Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds.

“I do want to just first thank Chief Achey over 30 years in the fire department,” Reynolds said before introducing Reich. “I want to thank him for his service to the city.”

Members of IAFF Local 735, which represents Bethlehem firefighters, announced in June that their members held a vote of no confidence against Achey. According to Brian Salabsky, president of the local union, 88 out of 95 union members supported the no confidence vote. Salabsky said a “lack of effective leadership,” “poor communication” and a “threatening” work environment from Achey led to the vote.

In a statement, the union said it is “extremely pleased” with Reich’s appointment.

“Chief Reich has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and service throughout his career in the fire service.” the statement, posted on the union’s Facebook page, said.

City Council members also lauded Reich’s appointment Tuesday night.

“You have come highly recommended,” said Council member Colleen Laird, addressing Reich directly. “I have talked to a few different firefighters that I know and reviewed your resume and appreciate you taking the initiative to step forward.”

Reich was officially sworn in Wednesday morning.

Reporter Lindsay Weber can be reached at Liweber@mcall.com .