DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – A statewide firefighters union has censured the Des Moines fire chief, criticizing what it says is his anti-labor management style. The Des Moines Register reports that the group took the action at its convention on Friday. The group president, Douglas Neys, says the censure has no actual effect on Chief John TeKippe other than subjecting him to public scrutiny for what the union says are his failings. TeKippe was president of Des Moines Local 4 before becoming chief in 2009.

TeKippe on Tuesday called the censure disappointing but dismissed it as a personal attack that lacked substance or merit. He says union representatives have used inaccurate statements to question the safety of firefighters and residents due to staffing levels.