UPDATE

Billings Asst Fire Chief suspended one week for insubordination

Posted: Sep 20, 2012 7:28 AM by Q2 News
Updated: Sep 20, 2012 4:08 PM

Assistant Fire Chief back on the job after docked one weeks pay

UPDATE: Billings Assistant Fire Chief Frank Odermann returned to work Wednesday after being suspended without pay for 40 hours. His discipline was enforced retroactively as a result of a finding this week by City Administrator Christina Volek.

After an investigation Volek determined that Odermann had been insubordinate in dealing with Fire Chief Paul Dextras.Odermann was put on leave after Fire Chief Paul Dextras filed a complaint against him. A due process hearing was held for the Assistant Fire Chief on August 24. He faced several allegations including insubordination and accusing Dextras of being incompetent. Odermann denied all 17 allegations, saying he did not violate any fire department rules and regulations or human resource policies.

In a press release issued late Wednesday Volek said Dextras and Odermann have committed to working to improve communication and strengthen leadership and public perception of the Fire Department. They also have pledged mutual support and a unified intent to work cooperatively with staff to improve Fire Department operations.

Odermann had been on paid administrative leave since May 31. He has worked on the fire department for the past 17 years.

Volek stated this will be the only comment made by the about the action taken.