Mayor Tom Donaldson released a written statement Wednesday afternoon regarding his decision to demote the now-retired Nick Ban from Butler Fire Chief to lieutenant.

“The city's financial situation demands attention,” Donaldson said in his statement. “The fire department needs restructured to help maintain financial solvency. Streets and parks have been cut beyond reason, yet these employees seem to be miracle workers. The police have given back freely to help the city and are worked to the bone. We need to turn our attention to the fire department as past efforts have proven fruitless. If this does not occur at once this city will be irretrievably forever financially lost.”

The statement follows Donaldson's demotion of Ban on Monday, April 11, without the consent of city council members. Following an outcry by city council members, Donaldson suspended his demotion of Ban on Thursday, but Ban retired midnight Friday after more than 25 years with the department.

Donaldson said in his statement he had the authority to demote Ban without reason but needs the consent of the council to name a new fire chief.

He also said his decision was nothing personal.

“I like Nick Ban personally,” Donaldson said.

Donaldson said his decision came after “many observations” and “much thought.” He also said that he expressed his opinion on the matter to city council in executive sessions and had spoken with Ban in regards to how Ban ran the department before making the decision.

Donaldson said he asked Ban if he knew what he would do if Ban demoted him, and according to Donaldson, Ban stated he would return to his previous rank of lieutenant.

Donaldson also said he spoke with city labor lawyers before demoting Ban. He said he hopes the position change of chief will be good for Butler.

“Many studies have been done here in Butler,” he said. “Most say we need to address issues in regards to our fire services. Hopefully this changes at the position of chief will enable us to move towards some of those suggestions.”