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Council confirms nine‑member screening panel to search for new fire chief
Summary
Mayor and council confirmed a nine‑member screening committee to conduct recruitment for a new fire chief after the incumbent announced intent to leave; council discussed timing, possible interim leadership and the need to budget for an assessment center.
The City Council confirmed a nine‑member fire‑chief screening committee and discussed the recruitment timeline and transparency measures for the process.
Councilors noted the outgoing chief provided notice around May 26 and the appointment window under city ordinance is six months, which would run into late November. Chief of staff Sean Fen briefed the council on the committee process and said the mayor will appoint the committee members and the council will confirm them. The confirmed committee will have 30 days after its formation to approve a job description and begin recruitment.
Councilors asked whether an interim chief would be necessary and were told that is possible depending on timing and candidate availability; the city will rely on senior department staff for continuity if needed. Members also raised the need to budget for an assessment center and recruitment costs and requested timely updates on candidate screening and whether salary expectations exceed the budgeted amount.
The order to confirm the screening committee passed after an amendment to list committee members directly in the order was adopted.
