It is no secret the City of Groveland has been experiencing changes on many levels. From the exciting news of park renovations and weekly kid summer events, to the groundbreaking of the approximate 125 million dollar Kroger-Ocado Distribution and Fulfillment Center, – the exponential growth has been quite impressive. With great growth comes change, and on Tuesday July 30, 2019, that is exactly what took place in the City of Groveland’s Fire Station, when longstanding Fire Chief Willie Morgan announced his intent to retire.
“The Groveland Fire Department has been a good and major aspect of my life for many years beginning in 1975,” penned Fire Chief Willie Morgan. “I’ve seen our fire department blossom from volunteers into a professional organization, second to none in the County. My wife and I have purchased a riverfront home in Alabama, to live out our retirement years.”
Chief Morgan not only grew up in Groveland but returned home after graduating from college and became the main factor in helping the City accomplish many achievements. Groveland’s first and only Fire Chief began his tenure as a department volunteer and climbed the ranks reaching a career with the City, spanning 43 years of dedicated service. During his tenure, Chief Morgan occupied positions to include interim City Manager and a member of the Council. Although the precise date of Chief Morgan’s transition into retirement will embody many variables to be explored along the way, he is excited about life after retirement and the future of Groveland’s Fire Department. However, before Chief Morgan’s transition is complete, he still has some work to do!
One of Chief Morgan’s last acts will be serving as the Construction Project Manager for Groveland’s new Public Safety Complex. In this role, he will be directly overseeing the planning of the building and working closely with all contracted agencies, to ensure successful project completion.
“Though change is never easy and always challenging, we celebrate Chief Morgan’s past achievements, as well as his personal decision to transition into retirement and spend time with his family,” penned City Manager Mike Hein as he addressed the Mayor, Council and City Staff. “He has served as a leader, mentor, and friend to many…for his labor of love and commitment, the City of Groveland will forever be grateful.”
