Now former Rehoboth Fire Chief Mark Haskell issues statement after termination

A local fire chief who was let go earlier this week has issued a statement.

According to Reporter Today, Rehoboth Fire Chief Mark Haskell was terminated by the Board of Selectmen in a 4-1 vote on Tuesday. The board cited insubordination, misconduct, and conduct unbecoming an officer, specifically alleging that Haskell violated directives to stay out of a solar farm project built next to his home and broke the state’s ethics laws. He was placed on paid administrative leave. One selectman, George Solas, voted against the firing, while others expressed respect for Haskell but said the situation left them no choice. Haskell, who had 34 years with the department and only became chief last October, had hoped the issue could be resolved privately.

On Thursday, Haskell released the following statement on social media.

To the Residents of Rehoboth,

On behalf of myself and my family, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for the outpouring of support following my recent dismissal as Fire Chief. Your kind words, messages, and encouragement have meant more than I can express.

While this decision was made by the town, I want to be clear that I am disappointed by the decision of the Board of Selectman I harbor no ill will toward anyone. My service to this community has always been, and will always remain, a point of pride. I accepted the responsibility of protecting lives and property with honor, and I have never taken that trust lightly.

The strength of a community is measured not just in its fire stations or town halls, but in the heart of its people — and your solidarity in this time has reminded me how truly strong Rehoboth is. Knowing that so many of you recognized my integrity and dedication affirms why I was proud to serve here.

Though I no longer wear the title, I will always be a neighbor, a friend, and someone who cares deeply about the safety and wellbeing of this town. Thank you for standing beside me when it would have been easier to stay silent. I am humbled and forever grateful. If I was afforded the opportunity to return as the Chief, I would start back today.

I would like to finally thank the Firefighters of the Rehoboth Fire Department. Their support has been overwhelming. I knew we had a department of loyal and hardworking Firefighters; I did not realize the support I had as their Chief. The text messages and phone calls asking how I’m doing, how I’m feeling, what I’m thinking and what I plan do next has been very emotional. They understand I had their back; I had their safety and their wellbeing as my number one priority. If I could apologize to each and every one of them I would. Hopefully this letter lets them all know how I think of them all.

Lastly, I need to apologize to my children. Anyone who knows me knows I try to lead a private life and keep matters to myself and deal with them on my own. Hunter, Aidan and Lauren I did a disservice to you by not letting you know what was going on. I am sorry you had to find out what was going on with me on Facebook the day of the hearing. I am not sure where any of this will be going in the future, but I want to let you know I will always appreciate your love and support.

With deep appreciation,

Mark Haskell

Former Fire Chief, Town of Rehoboth

According to Haskell, it appears that this case might be headed to court.