BLUFFTON, S.C. – On May 6, 2025, the Bluffton Township Fire District Board of Commissioners convened a special called meeting to address personnel matters. The Board voted to enter into an Executive Session under South Carolina Code Section 30-4-70(A)(1), which permits discussion of employment-related matters.
Following the Executive Session, the Board returned to open session and unanimously approved two motions concerning the position of the District’s Fire Chief:
- To advertise for the position of Bluffton Township Fire Chief effective immediately.
- To direct the Interim Fire Chief to research external recruitment firms for the Board’s evaluation and potential engagement.
These actions mark the official beginning of a thorough selection process for the Fire District’s next permanent Fire Chief.
Interim Fire Chief, Derek Church expressed his commitment to the department and the community, stating:
“Bluffton has been my home for more than 30 years. It’s where I’ve lived, worked, and raised my family. I am committed to ensuring our community continues to receive the same high level of professionalism, dedication, and service that our citizens have come to expect from the men and women of this Fire District.”
No additional information regarding Beaufort County’s ongoing investigation was discussed.