City of Bend officials are going to take their time in finding a replacement for Bend Fire Chief Larry Huhn when he retires at the end of the month.
Four candidates were interviewed and participated in a meet and greet with city residents last week.
City spokesman Justin Finestone says while a decision will be slow in coming - there is someone to step into the chief's shoes until a decision is made.
"One of his Deputy Chiefs, Doug Koellermeier is going to step in and be interim chief while we complete the process. Obviously, it's a very important hire for the city, so we're not going to rush it; we're going to make sure we get the right candidate for bend at the right time."
Finestone says the hiring committee will meet again soon, and we could possibly get more information on the direction they are moving by next week.