Stephanie Mills

Because of the "mine subsidence" — what experts call the ground shifting because of underground coal mines — cracks could be seen in the store’s parking lot and on two nearby streets.

Belleville’s mayor and city council tabbed Stephanie Mills last week to be the city’s new fire chief, the first woman to fill the position in the municipality's history.

Stephanie Mills will serve as the city's first female fire chief. “It would make anyone proud to lead this department," she said. "We have a long, proud tradition. To be named chief is an honor for anybody.”