The Chula Vista public affairs team just put out a bit of news that may seem surprising, unless you’ve been following the news lately:
Tucson’s Stephen Jeff Piechura, who accepted the position of Chula Vista Fire Chief Wednesday, has formally declined the offer. Piechura, Fire Chief of the Northwest Fire/Rescue District in Southern Arizona, announced his decision in an email to the Chula Vista City Manager.s office late Thursday afternoon.
This is quite a development. Piechura’s hiring was a pretty big deal for the city.
But after thinking about the job, Piechura had second thoughts:
“It is with great regret that I respectfully decline the offer to become the next Fire Chief for the City of Chula Vista. After further consideration, it has been determined that my taking the position in these times would not be of benefit for my family. Thank you for your consideration and your confidence in my abilities.
Anyone taking a management position at the city of Chula Vista right now is basically like a customer ordering a big crap sandwich from a rundown little diner. Not sure if it was realizing this that influenced his decision.