Interim Fire Chief Scott Olsen was selected to become the new fire chief. The fire district's board of directors voted 3-2 Wednesday night in favor of Olsen. Olsen said he isn't discouraged by the split vote.

"I am well versed in all aspects of the fire department's operation," he said. Olsen started as a volunteer firefighter in 1985 and has been with the district ever since.

Olsen took over as interim fire chief about 10 months ago. The day-to-day operations of his job will remain the same. The main difference will be that he can now focus on strategic planning for the future, Olsen said.

Olsen will make $111,982, which is more than $60,000 less than the former chief's salary.

"I think my salary is reasonable for my level of experience and my credentials and where I sit within the new salary structure that was created here recently," Olsen said.

The fire district would not allow firefighters to comment on the selection. The board members who voted against Olsen either did not return phone calls or declined KOMU 8 News' request for an interview.