Select Board holds moment of silence for former Fire Chief James Black

The North Brookfield Select Board opened its May 19 meeting with a moment of silence to honor former Fire Chief James (Jim) Black, who died May 7. The board read a statement outlining his five decades of service to the North Brookfield Fire Department, noting promotions to captain in 1974, assistant chief in 1981 and fire chief in 1984, and crediting him with leading department growth and improvements through the 1980s and 1990s.

Board members and other speakers recalled Mr. Black’s devotion to public safety and the demands of a long firefighting career, pointing to 50 years of trainings, meetings, structure fires and emergency responses. The board extended condolences to his wife, Sandy, his family and former colleagues.

The tribute did not include any formal action beyond the public recognition. The board proceeded to routine business after the moment of silence.