At least 12 firefighters have resigned in Wales, leading the town to open an independent investigation into concerns about leadership and operations

WALES, Maine — At least 12 firefighters have resigned from the Wales Fire Department, further thinning the volunteer department’s ranks amid an escalating dispute over leadership.

The latest departures come after firefighters called for the fire chief to resign, WGME reported.

| MORE: Firefighter exodus: A roundup of mass resignations

Town selectman Eric Gagnon told WMTW that officials accepted the first five resignation letters on April 7, leaving Wales with about 10 volunteer firefighters and relying on mutual aid from Sabattus, Litchfield and Monmouth.

He said firefighters cited “personnel reasons” but did not elaborate.

Gagnon met with firefighters months ago about concerns with Fire Chief Scott Dimmick, but did not know they planned to quit if Dimmick remained.

Since then, at least 12 firefighters have resigned and 10 remain, Maine Public Radio reported.

In a letter signed by “The 12 Resigned Members of the Wales Fire Department,” the firefighters state their decision follows months of concerns about operations, training, equipment readiness and leadership that were raised with both the fire chief and the Wales Select Board.

The firefighters said they no longer believe the department can “consistently operate at the level required” to protect firefighter safety, uphold professional standards and reliably serve the community.

No specific details regarding operations, training or readiness were provided in the letter.

Gagnon said the town has hired a Portland law firm to conduct an independent investigation into the fire department, including firefighters’ allegations that Dimmick is unqualified.

Dimmick declined to comment, and the firefighters who resigned also have not spoken publicly.

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