NORWICH – Norwich Police Chief Joseph Angelino’s stint as interim fire chief will continue until at least Jan. 1, city officials said, nearly one year longer than originally expected.

“At this point it’s status quo,” said Deborah DeForest, the city’s director of human resources. “We don’t anticipate any changes until the next fiscal year (Jan. 1).”

Angelino, who has been the city’s police chief since 1996, was appointed last July as a three to six month replacement for former Fire Chief John Tighe, who resigned effective July 31, 2006.

Angelino said he was initially reluctant to take the position, and admits it’s been a challenge balancing both departments.

“I was told to do this,” Angelino said, “and I’ve tried to do it to the best of my ability. It is a challenge.”

DeForest and Mayor Joseph Maiurano say the fire department is currently stabilizing its overtime costs and scheduling arrangements, acknowledging that a change now could disrupt those efforts, which have been positive.

“We want to get this completely straightened out before we make a change,” said Maiurano. “We’re trying to figure out the right fit for that area that will be the best for the city and for the taxpayers.”