RICH HILL, Mo. -- A leadership change at the Rich Hill Fire Department has sparked controversy and led to a wave of resignations, leaving the volunteer department with only a few members, according to statements from former firefighters. The controversy stems from the Rich Hill City Council's decision to appoint a new fire chief. According to public statements from former department members, the volunteer department had 13 firefighters who responded to more than 400 calls each year. The City of Rich Hill has not publicly addressed the resignations or responded to allegations regarding the appointment, the chief's qualifications or claims of nepotism.