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Richard J. Edwards sworn in as Truckee Meadows fire chief; outlines priorities including apparatus upgrades and regional study
Summary
On his first day, Chief Richard J. Edwards was sworn in July 1 and told the board he will focus on operational readiness, regional partnership and fiscal responsibility; he also reported new apparatus deliveries, recent wind‑driven wildfires and noted state legislation (SB 319) requiring a study on a county fire protection district.
Richard J. Edwards took the oath of office July 1 and addressed the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District board and the public, saying he intends to lead with “integrity, courage and compassion” and will work on operational readiness, regional partnerships and fiscal responsibility.
Edwards’ remarks: Sworn in during the meeting, Edwards thanked his mentors and the Stockton Fire Department where he previously served as chief. He said he will finalize a 180‑day plan after meeting with command staff, administrative teams and crews, and emphasized inclusivity, training and staff welfare.
Operational updates and wildfires: In his chief’s report, Edwards told commissioners the district recently received three battalion chief command vehicles and ordered three new Type 1 engines along with Type 3 and Type 5 wildland engines; apparatus construction and upfitting timelines are affected by national supply‑chain delays. He praised firefighters’ work on the June 10 Marie Fire (about 114 acres) and a separate Lemon Valley fast‑moving fire the week before the meeting. Edwards also reported that an engineer development school—the largest class to date—completed training for apparatus operators.
Legislative note: Edwards briefed the board on Senate Bill 319, signed by the governor on June 13, 2025. SB 319 directs Washoe County, Reno and Sparks to appoint members to a study group to examine creating a county fire protection district; the required study must produce a written report by Dec. 30, 2026. Edwards noted the study group must follow open‑meeting laws and that costs for any contracted study are to be shared by the three participating entities.
Public messaging and outreach: Chief Edwards and union representatives highlighted communication work ahead of the July 4 holiday, including a joint press release with the sheriff’s office reminding residents that recreational fireworks are illegal in Washoe County and that heavy social‑media outreach in English and Spanish will be deployed. The union reported it raised $66,000 in a Reno Rodeo 50/50 raffle and said some funds will support community needs and disaster relief.
Ending: Edwards closed his remarks by saying he is eager to start work on the district’s priorities and meet community members; commissioners welcomed him and discussed next steps on community‑safety issues including West Washoe Valley service concerns.
