City announces new fire chief

Joel Schmidt, assistant fire chief in White Bear Lake, has been named chief of the Mahtomedi Fire Department.

Schmidt, 41, of White Bear Lake, starts his new job on Feb. 3.

“It’s a great department, and I’m excited to become a part of it and continue to lead it forward,” Schmidt said.

Schmidt has been serving as assistant fire chief in White Bear Lake since 2018. He joined the department in 2006. Prior to coming to White Bear Lake, he served as a firefighter/fire training specialist for Mdewakanton Public Safety in Prior Lake and as a paramedic for Allina Medical Transportation.

He graduated in 2005 from Century College in White Bear Lake with an associate of arts and sciences degree in emergency medical technology/technician (EMT Paramedic).

Former Mahtomedi Fire Chief Terry Fischer retired in September; Assistant Fire Chief Tim Albrecht has been serving as interim fire chief since Fischer’s retirement.

City Administrator Scott Neilson said Schmidt impressed the city’s interview committee. “They felt like Joel would be a great fit for the department, and we’re very excited about him,” he said.

Schmidt’s annual salary will be $139,131.

— Mary Divine

Pedestrian struck by vehicle, killed

Rochester police are investigating a fatal pedestrian crash that occurred late Wednesday afternoon.

The crash occurred around 5:40 p.m. on Broadway Avenue South near 19th Street Southeast when a vehicle struck a pedestrian who was crossing the road, according to the Rochester Police Department.

The man was crossing outside the crosswalk, according to police. He was pronounced dead at the scene. He wasn’t immediately identified.

The motorist stopped and was cooperating with investigators, police said.

— Forum News Service