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St. Paul Council reappoints Butch Inks as fire chief, councilmembers praise his leadership
Summary
The St. Paul City Council approved the reappointment of Butch Inks as fire chief in a 6‑0 vote; Inks spoke about his long service to the city and councilmembers highlighted department innovations and community partnerships.
The St. Paul City Council approved a resolution reappointing Butch Inks as chief of the St. Paul Fire Department in a unanimous roll call vote.
Chief Inks addressed the council with his family present, describing his four decades of service in St. Paul and thanking council members, Mayor Carter and the department’s staff and union for their support. Inks described his path from youth programming and parks and recreation to the fire department and said he was honored to continue serving the city.
Councilmembers used the moment to publicly thank Inks for his leadership. Several members cited specific initiatives: collaborative labor‑management processes, the department’s role during the COVID response, work on public safety partnerships and outreach programs, and the recent opening of a renovated fire station and deployment of the city’s first electric fire truck. Council members also commended the department’s involvement in community programs, including the Northland Cup fundraiser that supports Ramsey County domestic violence intervention work.
The council approved the resolution by roll call: Bowie — aye; Johnson — aye; Jost — yes; Provodzinski — yes; Yang — yes; Vice President Kim — aye. The resolution passed 6‑0. No amendments or conditions were recorded in the meeting minutes.
Chief Inks thanked the council and his family again before leaving the chamber. The reappointment provides continuity in department leadership as the city continues ongoing public‑safety programs and capital improvements for fire facilities and equipment.
