Longtime Morrison Fire Department Chief Mark Parker has stepped down as head of the department.

“I’m sticking around, just stepping down,” Parker said. “I felt it was time. I’ve done if for several years. It was time for a change. This is a great bunch of people. It has been an honor to serve as chief for them.”

Aaron Roberts has been named the new fire chief. Jason Blaylock is now assistant chief. 

Parker says he can’t remember exactly when he first began to volunteer with the department, or when he was named chief.

“You’re going to think I’m crazy, but I just can’t remember. I became chief after Bobby Prater. He was chief for a long, long time. I think I’ve been with the department for about 35 or 36 years. It’s been a long time. I feel comfortable stepping down. The department is in good, good hands. Both Aaron and Jason are just great guys. They’ll do a wonderful job.”

Roberts is looking forward to the opportunity.

“I grew up in the fire department but I never thought about being chief one day,” he said. “It’s not something I’d ever set out to be. I do appreciate the opportunity. It’s an honor and maybe a challenge, a challenge that will be easier by having such a great support staff in the department.”

Roberts credits his time at the fire department for sparking his career in law enforcement. When he’s not volunteering to protect the personal safety of Morrison residents, he’s providing that service to all Warren County residents as a deputy with Warren County Sheriff’s Department.