The protracted search for a fire chief continues into this week, but the City of Demopolis can at least boast two well-qualified candidates from which to choose.

Capt. Tommy Tate, who served as interim chief, is still in the running after being offered the job earlier this year. Tate and the city could not agree on a compensation package, which at the was stated as lower than it is now.

Ronnie Sew of Georgia is the second candidate. Sew is a former fire fighter in Washington, D.C.

Both men seem equally qualified for the position. Sew had 30 years as a fire fighter before entering private business. Tate has served this city and its department ably, including serving as interim chief.

We have no official preference in this selection, only that the city chooses a qualified, capable candidate who will best serve our city. The city has certainly done their due-diligence in vetting these candidates and searching out qualified people.

We know the city has confidence in Tate, witnessed by the fact that they have offered him the job before. Now the question is: Do they believe Sew is more qualified for this particular position?