MOUNT VERNON — The investigation continues into the paramedic certification papers for Mount Vernon Fire Chief Shawn Christy.
Christy was placed on paid administrative leave June 2 after the city was told the Ohio Department of Public Safety was investigating his credentials. No decision was made by the June meeting of the state board, and Mount Vernon Mayor Richard Mavis said he’s wanting to expedite the investigation.
City Law Director Bill Smith and Assistant Law Director Rob Broeren are heading up the city’s investigation into Christy’s re-certification. Each paramedic is required to complete a minimum of 86 continuing education hours within a three-year cycle and Christy’s paramedic re-certification, which was to take effect July 14, was flagged “needs approval” by the state.
“They (the law directors) have been having some conversations with the state,” Mavis said. “We’re hoping to get an opportunity to share information — to find out what they have and let them know what we have.”
The state board is not expected to meet again until August, but Mavis wants to get it resolved before then.
“It’s necessary to get all the information available, to make sure the decision that’s made is justifiable,” Mavis said. “Hopefully, within a week or so, we’ll make enough strides to put this all together. It’s not serving any good purpose for this to linger.”
