Des Moines names Jonathan Lund as next fire chief; council confirmation set for Monday
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Summary
The City of Des Moines announced Jonathan Lund, the city’s fire marshal, as its next fire chief. The nomination goes before the City Council Monday; with council support Lund is slated to begin Dec. 23. Lund outlined a 30–60 day assessment and a year-long transition plan.
The City of Des Moines announced on Tuesday that Jonathan Lund, the city’s fire marshal, has been selected as the next fire chief and will be presented to the City Council for confirmation Monday night; with council support, Lund is slated to begin Dec. 23.
Scott, who introduced the selection, said the choice followed an extensive search and input from internal and external stakeholders that emphasized “operational readiness, commitment to firefighter safety, and innovative ideas to strengthen the department’s preparedness.” He added, “Today, I am honored to introduce to you our next Fire Chief for the City Of Des Moines, Jonathan Lund.”
Mayor Bozen praised the department’s leadership and tenure under the retiring chief, saying the city is “so fortunate in Des Moines to have such a tremendous fire department with leaders that demonstrate day in and day out exemplary leadership and dedication.” The mayor congratulated the retiring chief for leading the department since 2009 and welcomed Lund.
Lund, who currently serves as Des Moines’ fire marshal and has worked for the city for 18 years, spoke about his priorities and approach to the post. “I don’t take that lightly,” he said of the responsibility, adding that he will lead with “a growth mindset, a commitment to continuous improvement, and openness to new ideas.” He described plans to focus on training, internal development, hands-on exercises, educational opportunities and adoption of technologies and industry best practices.
Responding to questions about facilities and staffing, Lund said the department is working on plans to add and potentially relocate stations to match growth, citing airport-area growth and improvements on Army Post Road. He said accreditation and peer assessment are priorities and that he will work with the city manager’s office, council and finance staff to secure funding for new stations and related needs.
Lund also highlighted recent investments and personnel issues the department faces. He noted the department’s recent station builds and an administration building, and said firefighter-safety measures such as providing two sets of gear per firefighter have been implemented. He told attendees that at least “over 50 of our 75 officer positions” have less than two years in those roles, which he framed as an opportunity to emphasize officer development and training.
On onboarding, Lund said the first 30 to 60 days will focus on an assessment of areas he has overseen—budget, fire prevention and the new facilities—and that a year-long transition plan will help him get up to speed on other aspects of department operations. Scott closed the event by thanking attendees and expressing confidence in the department’s future.
The City Council will consider Lund’s appointment at its Monday meeting; the appointment requires council support before Lund’s planned start date of Dec. 23.
