Brookhaven Fire Chief Paul Cartwright will retire at the end ofJanuary, after 30 years with the department.

Cartwright, 54, said he felt 30 years was “a good round figure”for retirement. In reaching his decision, he mentioned the flowershop, Bertha’s Flowers, that he and his wife Myrtle have owned forabout six years.

“I had a goal at 30 years that I was either going to pursuesomething else or help her with the business,” Cartwright said thismorning.

Aldermen accepted the chief’s retirement letter during Tuesdaynight’s board meeting. It is effective Jan. 31.

“He’s done some great work for the city …,” said Ward TwoAlderman Terry Bates. “He worked his way up, and I have greatrespect for him.”

Mayor Bob Massengill echoed the alderman’s comments.

“He has done an excellent job for the city through the years,”said Massengill, who received the chief’s retirement letterMonday.

Cartwright started as a firefighter under Chief Paul Sartin. Heworked up through the years and was named chief in 1988, giving him16 years as the department’s leader.

“The city has been great to me, and I’ve enjoyed working withthe city,” Cartwright said.

In his retirement, Cartwright said he planned to take some timeoff and consider some opportunities before making a decision later.Cartwright said the city is in good shape and is on theupswing.

“I felt like it was good timing for me and my family,”Cartwright said.