Maples named Stanford's next fire chief

STANFORD — The Stanford Volunteer Fire Department will have a very familiar face as its new permanent chief in less than a month.

Scott Maples, who is currently serving as acting chief in the absence of chief Kenny McDaniels, will take over the official position Jan. 2, Mayor Bill Miracle said Thursday.

Maples is a 20-year veteran firefighter, with much of his experience coming through work as a volunteer with the Stanford department. He also spent two years in the late 2000s serving as the Lincoln County Fire Protection District's assistant chief and training coordinator.

"Scott's got the experience," Miracle said. "He's go the background and the knowledge and the ability to do it. And the desire — he wants it."

McDaniels, who has been on medical leave since June, will officially retire from his position in January, Miracle said. McDaniels began working for the city on the police department in 2003, then became fire chief a few years later.

Maples said he wants to provide Stanford citizens with the best fire protection possible and thinks he has a "good solid group" of volunteers.

While the department already has a good amount of training, Maples said he would like to implement a focus on taking the department's training "to the next level."

Because of his years of experience and qualifications, Maples will be receiving the same $36,140 salary that McDaniels was receiving, Miracle said.

With the exception of the chief position, the Stanford Fire Department is staffed entirely by volunteers.

Maples is currently serving as a Stanford city councilman, but he was one of two incumbents, along with Councilman Greg Findling, who were not reelected to their seats in November's general election.