Grand Blanc Fire Chief Reinstated After Staffing Dispute

Fire Chief Jamie Jent is back on the job after being placed on leave earlier this month for raising concerns about staffing shortages in his department.

Fire Chief Suspended After Raising Concerns

His suspension came just weeks after the Sept. 28 attack and fire that killed four people at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The tragedy reignited long-standing debates over safety and staffing in Grand Blanc Township’s fire service.

Community Rallies Behind Chief Jent

At a packed township board meeting Tuesday night (October 28, 2025), firefighters and residents filled the room in support of Jent. He told the board that transparency and communication were part of his leadership style, reminding them he made that clear when hired in April 2025 after a 24-year career in Dearborn.

Jent asked the board:

What kind of fire chief does Grand Blanc Township want? If you don’t want someone who will push for improvements, don’t hire me.

Jent said Township Superintendent Dennis Liimatta warned him not to speak with the union without approval, a directive Jent said violated federal labor laws. The union claims Liimatta cut four full-time firefighter positions from the proposed 2026 budget weeks before the church attack.

Union Challenges Township Leadership

After the tragedy, Jent increased staffing to three firefighters per apparatus, though national standards recommend four. Union leaders said low staffing and aging equipment endanger both crews and residents.

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Township leaders initially planned to consider firing Jent, but that agenda item was pulled after a private discussion with Liimatta. By the end of the night, Jent was reinstated.

Budget Battle Ahead for Fire Department

Interim Chief Kent Maricle defended current staffing levels, though the union maintains they fall short of safety standards. Supervisor Scott Bennett said the board will review fire operations and budgets at its Nov. 11 meeting.

For now, Jent’s back in uniform, with strong community support behind him. However he says he has no confirmation or anything in writing yet from the township.

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