Councilman Rudy Savornis Jr., assistant president pro tem, presided as the Los Angeles City Council confirmed the appointment of Dr. William Burke to the city's Fire Commission on Oct. 10, 2000.

Several council members spoke in support of the nomination, citing Burke’s public-service record and prior work in government and community organizations. “Having somebody of his quality and his ability is a real plus for our city,” Councilman Berson said in support of the appointment. Councilwoman Zukowski told the council the nomination came through the Public Safety Committee and praised Burke’s “stellar community involvement.” Councilman Ridley-Thomas said Burke’s leadership on AQMD-related environmental and justice issues made the nomination appropriate for the Fire Commission’s work on safety and hazard concerns.

The clerk opened the roll on the appointment; the vote was recorded as 13 ayes and the item was approved.

Dr. William Burke did not speak at length following the vote; the council moved on to subsequent business.