Franklin Appoints Charles “Chuck” Allen as New Fire Chief, Promoting from Within for First Time in 40 Years

Franklin has a new fire chief. At Wednesday’s Town Council meeting, the council made official the retirement of James McLaughlin, who had led not only the Franklin Fire Department but also the Emergency Management Agency. Then they named Franklin Battalion Chief Charles “Chuck” Allen as the new chief. The Franklin Observer reports it’s the first time in more than 40 years they have promoted from within for the chief position. The Town Administrator says there were other candidates but Allen was the best choice. He’s been with Franklin Fire since 2000 and Battalion Chief since 2020.