The Chelmsford firefighters’ union has unanimously expressed no confidence in Fire Chief Gary Ryan, citing what it described as ongoing leadership failures that have negatively impacted both the department and the community it serves. The vote by IAFF Local 1839 came nearly two months after firefighter Nick Spinale sustained severe injuries in a fall from a training facility, highlighting deeper concerns within the department.

In a statement posted on June 8, the union criticized Ryan for what it characterized as his inadequate handling of staffing and operational challenges, mismanagement of resources, insufficient understanding of fundamental fire ground protocols, and poor communication during critical incidents. The union emphasized that the vote reflects years of mounting frustration rather than a response to any single event or negotiation.

Ryan responded in a letter to acting Town Manager John B. Sousa Jr., which the union shared publicly to promote transparency. He disputed the union’s claims, asserting that their assessment does not accurately portray his performance or the collaborative relationship he maintains with union members. Ryan attributed the no-confidence vote primarily to ongoing contract negotiations and contentious issues surrounding the town’s approach to Spinale’s employment status following his April injury.

Spinale, 28, suffered extensive injuries after falling approximately 40 feet at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in Stow. His condition has required multiple surgeries and a prolonged recovery. A video shared by the union in late April showed Spinale taking his first steps since the accident, drawing public attention to the disparities in benefits firefighters receive depending on their employment status at the time of injury.

While firefighters injured in active duty roles qualify for full salary and benefits under state law, those injured while working as contract employees, like Spinale was at the academy, currently receive only workers’ compensation—a significantly lower amount. The gap has prompted calls for legislative change, with Governor Maura Healey filing a bill intended to guarantee Spinale full pay and benefits during his recovery. Governor Healey has described Spinale as a hero and emphasized the importance of supporting firefighters injured in the line of duty or while training others.

In his letter, Ryan stressed that the town has not withheld support from Spinale and noted his testimony backing the legislation designed to secure appropriate assistance for the injured firefighter. Ryan also highlighted his personal involvement in fundraising efforts for Spinale and challenged the union’s assertion that he failed to advocate on Spinale’s behalf.

The union maintained that its concerns extend beyond the Spinale case or current contract disputes. It described the no-confidence vote as the culmination of years of deteriorating relations and dissatisfaction within the department’s ranks. The firefighters expressed that the strained dynamic between leadership and personnel has reached a critical point that can no longer be overlooked.