While reading about Chief Maurice Kemp being allowed to stay with the Miami Fire Department another year, I was laughing inside. (Miami fire chief delays retirement; collects pension and salary, Jan 14).

I’m a retired fire lieutenant and I like the chief, But the explanations for allowing this do not pass the smell test.

Yes, the MFD has had a huge turnover in the past three years, but that was a known factor for the past five years. The DROP program lets you plan 4.5 years in advance.

As far as no obvious internal replacement candidates existing, that’s just not true. And if it were true, it would be one hell of an indictment on MFD management’s lack of planning over the last 4.5 years.

The true statement is that the fire chief is an honorable man and he admits that he is replaceable.

Privileges should never be afforded to only a select group of employees.