Jim Thorpe Borough’s long-serving Municipal Fire Chief Vincent Yaich Sr. is resigning from the position, borough council announced during a meeting Thursday night.

Council unanimously accepted Yaich’s resignation while expressing appreciation for his decades of service.

“He has given many years to the department and he is actually staying with the department as a volunteer from my understanding so that is good to hear,” Council President Greg Strubinger said. “He was deputy chief for a good number of years and we thank him for his leadership.”

Yaich began his service with the Jim Thorpe Phoenix Hose Company No. 2 in 1974 at age 16. He joined the Diligent Fire Company in 1976, eventually holding positions as captain and first lieutenant. Yaich also served on the ambulance crew and was a committee member involved in the purchase of the company’s 1977 Mack fire engine.

Yaich’s resignation is effective immediately and Strubinger said Friday morning that Deputy Chief Bill Diehm is in charge until a new chief is appointed.

In a related personnel matter, council approved the appointment of Chuck DeHaven as Second Lieutenant for Onoko Fire and Rescue. The appointment follows the June 4 departure of the previous Second Lieutenant, who moved out of the borough.

In police personnel news, council also accepted the resignation of Officer Kyle Oliver from his full-time position, effective June 10. Oliver will remain with the department in a part-time capacity.

“We look forward to a continued association with (Oliver),” Strubinger said. “He’s a great asset to the borough, so we wish him well and look forward to his return.”

Police Chief Joe Schatz said Oliver has been with the department for nine years.

“He’s a seasoned officer and we’re glad he’ll be with us in a part time capacity,” he said. “We would sure hate to lose him.”