Andy Baillis sworn in as new Valley City Fire Department fire chief

LIVERPOOL TWP. — Liverpool Township Trustee Cathy Keller swore in Andy Baillis as the new fire chief for the Valley City Fire Department on Tuesday. The ceremony took place in the township's fire station, and Keller also swore in firefighter Zach Zeroski on Tuesday night. "(Swearing-in) is where they promise to faithfully serve their community and abide by the rules of the department and follow our core values," Baillis said. "The Valley City Fire Department places great value in the following: professionalism, efficiency, training, education and passion." He encouraged all the firefighters in attendance to think back to why they joined the profession while he told his own story. Baillis said a trip to the local fire department left a lasting impression on him as a child. "Like many kids at a young age, I wanted to be a fireman," he said. "I remember watching the members of the local volunteer fire department growing up, running into the station every time that whistle blew. Whenever that siren blew, I grabbed my toy fire helmet." As he grew up, his dream to become a firefighter was pushed aside, Baillis said. He worked in the private sector for a while but was still searching for his purpose. Then, one night, his friends encouraged him to join the local fire department. "I took that leap of faith and joined my local fire department," he said. "This early experience with my local fire department helped me realize my 'why' and ignited my passion. I discovered that I had a servant's heart and wanted to use my skills and abilities to help my community." In August, the Liverpool Township Trustees unanimously approved Baillis as the new full-time fire chief for the fire department. The township began working on filling the position in summer 2022. "I'm looking forward to serving the members of this department," Baillis said. "I pledge to provide them with the tools, training and equipment, so they can safely and effectively perform their duty as Valley City firefighters." Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.