WESTMINSTER : Firefighters’ Union Leader Faces Firing

Fire Chief John T. DeMonaco Jr. said he intends to fire Paul Gilbrook, the president of the Westminster Firefighters Assn. who has been under investigation for allegedly driving a fire engine with a suspended driver’s license.

DeMonaco on Thursday sent a notice to Gilbrook, who is also under investigation for allegedly using sick leave improperly.

Gilbrook has maintained that he has done nothing wrong and that the investigations against him are in retaliation for his support of a recall drive against four members of the City Council.

Gilbrook, who could not be reached Thursday, was given until Wednesday to answer DeMonaco’s notice. If he does not respond by that date, the termination will take effect.

Gilbrook, an engineer, will remain on suspension with pay until “a final determination is made by the city.” He has been suspended with pay since Dec. 28.

Gilbrook’s license was suspended for 30 days, beginning Feb. 12, 1993, after a drunk-driving conviction. City officials provided few details as to when Gilbrook might have driven a Fire Department vehicle during the 30 days.

Alan C. Davis, Gilbrook’s lawyer, said his client has not been notified of the intent to terminate him.

It’s bizarre that someone should know about his firing by reading a newspaper, Davis said.

“Paul Gilbrook is absolutely innocent of any wrongdoing. He is a highly regarded and decorated firefighter who has been praised by his own battalion chief and previous chiefs of the department,” Davis said.