Providence Fire Chief Clarence A. Cunha is retiring after almost 35 years with the capital city’s fire department.
Cunha has reached the mandatory retirement age of 60. His retirement is not related to the ongoing negotiations between the union representing firefighters and the administration of Mayor Jorge Elorza, said mayoral spokesman Evan England.
“This didn’t come as a surprise,’’ said England. “It is not related to the platoon talks.’’
Elorza said in a statement that Assistant Chief Scott Mello will take over as chief on an interim basis.
“Chief Cunha’s commitment to the safety of Providence and its residents has been exemplary. On behalf of a grateful city, I thank Chief Cunha or his service and wish him well as he begins the next chapter in his life,’’ said Elorza in a statement.
Mello has been a member of the fire department since 1984 and has been assistant chief since February.
