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Spokane council confirms Tom Williams as fire chief amid process concerns
Summary
The City Council confirmed Tom Williams as Spokane Fire Department chief by a 5‑2 vote. Several council members praised his leadership but said they opposed the appointment because they prefer a national search and broader public input on major leadership hires.
The Spokane City Council voted to confirm Tom Williams as fire chief in a recorded vote that passed 5‑2.
Several council members praised Williams’ leadership and performance in the role, noting his experience and responsiveness. Council member McClitsky said he met with Williams and had no personal objections to the candidate, but he opposed the appointment on process grounds and called for a more thorough national search for the permanent position. Council member Zappone likewise said he would vote against the appointment because of process concerns, but he complimented Williams personally.
Council discussion framed the issue as one of process rather than personnel: supporters urged pragmatic continuity and pointed to Williams’ contributions during a challenging period, while opponents said rank‑and‑file firefighters and the public deserved a more exhaustive national recruitment and community engagement effort for such a leadership post. The motion to approve the appointment carried with the stated outcome in the chamber.
The appointment takes effect immediately under the resolution recorded at the Jan. 12 meeting; council discussion noted interest in a national search when the chief’s term is reconsidered.
(Outcome: appointment approved, 5-2.)
