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A big decision in Marana Friday as the Avra Valley Fire District Board voted on whether Chief Tom Nix will keep his position.

Several firefighters have complained about Nix., saying he is not qualified for the job and that he bought an online degree. Firefighters also have complaints about a lack of staffing in the department. Nix denies those accusations and Friday, the district board voted.

After a bitter dispute between a chief and his firefighters, a solution is in the making.

"It's great news for us," Avra Valley firefighter Brian Lessen said. "We're very excited about it."

"I agree with the Board," Avra Valley Fire Chief Tom Nix said.

Nix will be placed on paid nondisciplinary leave. In the meantime, the board will discuss a severance agreement.

"It's not that I'm not fighting," Nix said. "I think what's happened has severely impaired my ability to manage this place now."

The board will also spend time hearing from the firefighters, giving them a chance to prove the allegations they have made against Nix.

"It demonstrates that they're willing to listen to us and that's what we've wanted all along," Lessen said.

Nix is confident that investigation will come up empty.

"They have no proof whatsoever, that's why they've asked for that proof from the firefighters," Nix said. "I'm more than positive they won't get it."

Firefighters say they're sure they've got the proof.

"Two thirds of our firefighters are using old and in maybe some cases, expired turn out gear," Nix said. "Morale is extremely low. Thirteen out of his 17 firefighters don't want him anymore."

Chief Brett Lane will be taking over as Interim Fire Chief. Lane previously served as Assistant Fire Chief.