By Mary Beth Almond
C & G Staff Writer

BIRMINGHAM — After 34 years of service, Birmingham Fire Chief Tim Wangler, 55, is stepping down.

Wangler, who joined the department July 1, 1974, became fire chief in May 2003. He officially retired from the position July 3.

Birmingham Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief/Operations Michael Metz was named the acting fire chief.

Birmingham Mayor Don Carney said he was sad to learn of Wangler’s retirement.

“I and my fellow city commissioners certainly wish him well and commend him for his 34 years of dedicated service to the city of Birmingham. It is not often that a person who has grown up in the area also finds a career in the same area, let alone in public service,” he said.

Carney said the city was fortunate to have had a fire chief of Wangler’s caliber  for so many years.

“He will be greatly missed,” he said.

City Commissioner George Dilgard called Wangler “a first class guy.”

“Tim has made many significant contributions and improvements to our fire and emergency response services during his long career.  The residents really appreciate the professionalism and caring of our Fire Department personnel. We wish him the very best,” he said.

Wangler lives in Troy with his wife, Melissa. The couple has a son, David, who lives in Madison Heights, and a daughter, Patty, who lives in Houston.

Wangler could not be reached for comment.

You can reach Staff Writer Mary Beth Almond at malmond@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1060.