WALHALLA — Two years after arriving in Oconee County, Walhalla Fire Chief John Ekaitis is leaving the Golden Corner for the Lowcountry.

Ekaitis confirmed Friday he had submitted his resignation as fire chief.

“Tuesday, I informed the public safety committee chairman and the city administrator,” Ekaitis said. “I’m going to Dorchester County, near the coast, as the fire coordinator for the county. It’s a new position, and I’m looking forward to the challenges it entails.”

Ekaitis became the fire chief in Walhalla in 2007, after leaving Hardeeville, a small town of about 2,700 near Hilton Head Island.

His new endeavor as fire coordinator will take him back toward the coast.

“I have mixed reactions. The staff here in Walhalla is outstanding, and they work hard. The council and city administrator have been very good to me,” he said. “But this position presents a lot of challenges I’d like to face in my career. I look forward to it, and I’m going to give it my best shot.”

Safety Committee Chairman Davy Lee will be responsible for spearheading an effort to find a replacement.