Acting Fire Chief William Warnock was introduced as North Reading's new fire chief at Monday's selectmen meeting. Warnock attended the meeting with his wife Kim and three sons Ryan, Reid and RJ.

Town Administrator Greg Balukonis said that both Warnock and Deputy Barry Galvin went through the Civil Service Hiring Process. 

"I just wanted to mention that we went through a Civil Service Hiring Process and both Bill and Deputy Galvin took the exam and they did an outstanding job in the assessment center," Balukonis said.

As the appointing authority, Balukonis said he made the decision not only based on knowledge, skills and ability, but he also looked at respect, knowledge and leadership.

Warnock had been acting chief since Richard Harris stepped down in 2011.

The new chief will be officially sworn in soon, Balukonis said, and after that permanent appointments for deputy and captain will also be made.

Warnock thanked the selectmen, town administrator and his fellow members of the North Reading Fire Department, saying "they do a difficult job everyday, they do it well, and I'm proud of them."

He also thanked his family, saying, "without them I wouldn't be able to accomplish anything."

Selectman Steve O'Leary noted that Warnock comes from a long line of firefighters and he wished him continued success in years to come. The rest of the board members followed, complimenting Warnock and congratulating him.