Nampa fire chief resigns after DUI charge
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NAMPA — Fire Chief Karl Malott is stepping down as Nampa’s top firefighter.
Malott submitted his resignation this week. His decision comes weeks after being charged with excessive driving under the influence, a misdemeanor stemming from his Sept. 24 motorcycle crash on Interstate 84.
Mayor Bob Henry announced Tuesday that he has accepted the resignation, which will be effective Dec. 23. Richard Davies will continue to serve as acting fire chief.
Malott began his career with the Nampa Fire Department in December 1992. He was named chief March 29, 2009.
“I have accepted the resignation of Karl Malott,” Henry said in a statement. “As the fire chief for the city, Karl did an excellent job. He had a vision for what the Nampa Fire Department could be in the future. He has led the efforts to consolidate the Nampa rural and city fire departments, and that is something we will continue to pursue. He also had a vision for how area fire departments could work together to provide better service in the Treasure Valley. That kind of leadership will be missed.”
Malott will get the same benefits as all city employees, including a payout of unused personal leave, city spokeswoman Vickie Holbrook said. He will also have access to his personal retirement fund.
The Nampa City Council met Monday night in an executive session to discuss employee matters, but it is uncertain whether that discussion related to Malott’s employment status. Under state law, executive sessions are private. No decision was made after the council reconvened.
Henry said he will begin the search for a new fire chief immediately, seeking both internal and external applicants.
Malott, 53, was injured in a motorcycle crash, which occurred near the Sand Hollow exit. Authorities say Malott was riding eastbound on a Harley Davidson motorcycle. A Nampa woman was also traveling eastbound in a Chevrolet Malibu. Malott rear-ended the Malibu and was thrown from the motorcycle.
Malott was not wearing a helmet. The female motorist and her passenger were not injured in the crash.
Malott’s arraignment is scheduled for 9 a.m. Nov. 28. A misdemeanor DUI charge has a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail and a $2,000 fine.
This story was originally published in the Idaho Press-Tribune. It is used here with permission.