The current fire chief of an area town is stepping down to take a job as North Haven's deputy chief of administration.
Patch Staff
|Updated Fri, Mar 21, 2025 at 4:39 pm ET
NORTH HAVEN, CT — Hamden Fire Chief Jeffrey Naples will retire next month and will take the deputy chief of administration role in the North Haven Fire Department, Hearst Connecticut Media first reported.
His last day in Hamden is April 4. Naples, who is from North Haven, joined the Hamden Fire Department 19 years ago.
He was previously assistant fire chief in Hamden before being appointed as acting fire chief in 2022 following the retirement of Fire Chief Gary Merwede.
The Hamden Fire Department on Friday shared Naples’ letter to the department members (see the full letter below):
It is with a mixture of pride, gratitude, and a bit of sadness that I write to announce my retirement from the Town of Hamden effective April 4, 2025. After 19 years of serving this department, beginning as a firefighter and working my way up through the ranks of Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Chief, and ultimately Chief of Department, I feel that the time has come for me to start the next chapter. I have accepted the position in North Haven as their next Deputy Chief of Administration where I look forward to continuing to serve with the same commitment and dedication that I have always strived to uphold.
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Looking back on the past two decades, I am filled with deep appreciation for all of you, my colleagues, mentors, friends, and brothers. Each of you has played an integral role in making this department what it is today. From the very first day I walked through these doors as a firefighter, I knew I was joining something special. The sense of duty, the camaraderie, and the unwavering commitment to the mission have been constants throughout my career.
As I progressed through the ranks I was blessed to be surrounded by talented, hardworking, and selfless individuals who inspired me every day. Every promotion and every challenge was an opportunity to learn, whether it was in the firehouse, on the fireground, or during those quiet moments when we reflected on our families. You’ve shown me what it means to lead with integrity, humility, and passion.
We’ve faced many challenges together, long nights, difficult calls, and moments of great sorrow. But we’ve also shared countless moments of triumph and joy. The bond we’ve forged over these years is something that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
I am proud of everything we have accomplished together. The growth of our department, the improvements in training, safety, and equipment, and most importantly, the level of service we provided on every response. I’ve always believed that our work is about more than just responding to emergencies—it’s about serving with honor, building trust with the community, and making a difference every single day.
As I move on to the next chapter in my life, I am confident that this department is in excellent hands with Assistant Chief Carter. I’ve seen the leadership potential within our ranks, and I know that the future of the Hamden Fire Department is bright. I look forward to watching from next door as you continue to grow, evolve, and inspire those who follow in our footsteps.
Thank you all for your unwavering support, dedication, and for the honor of allowing me to serve as your Chief. I will carry these memories and experiences with me for the rest of my days.
Stay safe, never stop learning, and take care of each other!
With my deepest gratitude and respect,
Jeffrey G. Naples
Chief / EMD
Hamden Fire Department
See related: Acting Fire Chief Appointed In Hamden
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