City Of Williston Releases Statement On Fire Chief Shakeup

The Williston City Commission has accepted the resignation of Fire Chief Matt Clark, originally set to take effect Jan. 2, effective immediately. City officials said the decision was made to ensure continuity of leadership and maintain public safety.

The commission thanked Clark for his service and contributions and said the immediate transition aligns with the city’s Strategic Plan, which identifies public safety as a major priority.

“As a City we have the authority and responsibility to accept resignations and determine the timing that best serves our community,” Public Safety Commissioner James Bervig said. “This transition allows us to move forward with confidence and stability.”

Assistant Chief of Operations Corey Johnson has been appointed interim fire chief, effective Friday, Nov. 14. Johnson has served the city for 10 years in several operations-level and interim roles and has 18 years of emergency response experience, including fire and EMS. During which time Clark became accredited as a Chief Fire Officer by the Center for Public Safety Excellence in 2023. Assistant Chief of EMS and Administration R.J. Benth will serve in a supporting leadership role.

“It is a great honor to step into the role of Interim Fire Chief as we navigate this transition,” Johnson said. “The men and women who make up the Williston Fire Department are some of the best in the state, and I am committed to supporting them as we continue to serve the citizens of Williston. My top priority is to maintain the department’s high standards of operational excellence and ensure our firefighters have the support they need to keep our community safe.”

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Bervig added, “We thank Chief Clark for his contributions and wish him success in his future. Under interim Chief Johnson’s leadership, the public can be assured of continued excellence in service.”