Most Malin volunteer firefighters have resigned

MALIN, Ore. (AP) – Most volunteer firefighters in the small Klamath County town of Malin have quit in a dispute with the Malin Rural Fire Protection District.

The Herald and News reports eight volunteers resigned, leaving only three firefighters in the community southeast of Klamath Falls – just north of the California border.

Volunteers who resigned told the City Council this week they will return if Fire Chief Virgil Jochim is replaced.

Heidi Wright, an EMT-in-training, says the work environment has been toxic, replete with hurtful gossip, badmouthing of volunteers by leadership and retribution for speaking out.

The chief did not attend the meeting or immediately return calls from the Herald and News.

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Information from: Herald and News, http://www.heraldandnews.com