Patch has learned that John Bailot, fire chief for the city of Olivette, was offered the same position in Ladue by the Ladue City Council in executive session last night. This was confirmed by Michael Woolridge, the city's administrator.

Bailot has served Olivette in the top position for several years. Prior to that, he was deputy chief of the Kirkwood Fire Department.

Bailot has extensive HazMat training and will bring a wealth of experience to Ladue.

The chief had this to say about the new appointment: "I am very excited to work with young and talented department."

Bailot replaces Eric Hinson, who resigned last fall. He has been indicted by the Federal Court of Eastern Missouri for numerous charges while handling funds for the St. Clair (MO) Fire District.

Hinson, who rose through the ranks in Ladue, replaced veteran chief Ted Jury, who took retirement from Ladue, then became the fire chief for the city of Brentwood.