By NEAL WAGNER / City Editor

Alabaster Fire Chief Frank Matherson will be retiring from the city on Nov. 1 after 32 years of service with the Alabaster Fire Department.

Matherson, who has been the city’s fire chief for the past nine years, said he has “thoroughly enjoyed” his time with the city, but said he is looking to give someone else a chance to take the reins.

“It’s been a good ride, but it’s a young man’s profession,” Matherson said with a laugh. “I just need to go a different route. It’s time to move on.”

Matherson said he has no immediate plans after retiring.

“I don’t have anything definite planned right now. I’m going to just take it easy for a little while,” Matherson said.

Alabaster Mayor David Frings said the city posted the fire chief’s job opening on Oct. 12, and “will fill it as soon as possible.” According to the city’s website, the Alabaster Human Resources Department will accept applications for the position until Oct. 26.

Matherson’s retirement announcement came a few months after Alabaster Police Chief Stanley Oliver also announced his retirement. Frings said the city concluded interviews for the police chief’s position on Oct. 15.