Council confirms promotions across Danbury Fire Department, names William Lounsbury chief

The Danbury City Council confirmed several promotional appointments in the fire department on June 2, including the elevation of Acting Fire Chief William Lounsbury to Fire Chief.

Mayor's communications presented biographies and service histories for each nominee; Acting Chief Lounsbury’s letter noted a 35‑year career including leadership of a $21,000,000 operating and capital budget and oversight of career and volunteer personnel. Councilman Salvatore moved to confirm Lounsbury, the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Council then voted on a package of promotions: Lieutenant Sean Peltier to fire captain, Lieutenant Dennis Ricard to fire captain, firefighter James Babcock to fire lieutenant and firefighter Mark Degrandis to fire lieutenant. Each nomination was supported by a motion on the floor and carried by voice vote.

Newly confirmed Chief Lounsbury thanked the council and his family during brief remarks after the vote, saying, “Thank you to the council for approving me tonight. It’s a real honor.” Promoted officers also offered short remarks of gratitude to the mayor, the chief and colleagues.

None of the appointments faced recorded opposition during the roll-call or voice votes. The confirmations were routine personnel actions that follow the city’s established promotional and confirmation process; the council treated them as separate motions and approved each in turn.

Next steps: the promotions take effect according to the city’s personnel rules and the new chief and officers will assume their duties as scheduled.