Marysville fire chief put on paid administrative leave

MARYSVILLE — Fire Chief Martin McFalls has been put on paid administrative leave by the Marysville Fire District Board of Directors. The reason was not disclosed.

“We cannot discuss it because it is a personnel matter,” said board chair Michael Stevens, who is also a Marysville City Councilmember.

The move took effect May 16. Deputy Chief Darryl Neuhoff has been named acting chief.

McFalls, 58, is in his 34th year with the department and has a base salary of $177,651 a year.

He got hired as a part-time firefighter in 1988 and became full-time in 1990. He has climbed the ranks and was named chief in 2015.

“He’s been part of the community forever. He’s a very well respected member of the community,” Stevens said. “As soon as we’re able to clarify, we will.”