It was a crowd the St. Lawrence County Board isn't used to. Dozens of firefighters and emergency crew personnel attended the Board of Legislator's meeting Monday night. They came for one reason: to speak out on behalf of Martin Hassett. Our Cara Thomas tells us that even after the concerns were heard, the board didn't waiver on their decision.

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CANTON, N.Y. -- Stories were shared and concerns were expressed as a handful of firefighters stepped up to the microphone at the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators meeting. They were all hoping to get Martin Hassett a second chance to remain as their Director of Emergency Services.

"I was hoping they would take to heart the messages of the volunteer firefighters who risk their personal health and safety on our behalves and on behalf of the citizens of St. Lawrence County. I was hoping that would mean something to them," said Fred Morrill, St. Lawrence County legislator.

Hassett was forced to resign two weeks ago after concerns were brought up to the board regarding his performance. Those concerns have not been told to the public. But even after Fred Morrill asked for a suspension of the rules to discuss a further investigation into the allegations against Hassett, the board voted against it 8 to 5.

"I hadn't seen any indication of any evidence that would warrant a special investigation into our county administrator's performance on this particular issue," said Stephen Putman, St. Lawrence County legislator.

And with that, the firefighters left...but did not leave quietly.

Later on in the meeting, the chairwoman did announce that a search committee has been created not only to look for a new Emergency Services Director, but to also look at the overall structure of the position. This came after many board members expressed concerns that a new approach may be needed.

"The last three have left under similar circumstances, I believe there's something wrong with the structure and we need to address that," said Morrill.

Morrill said he was disappointed with how the night turned out, but said he hopes the board can now move on.