Rowlett firefighters accuse city management of mishandling chief search, call for transparency

Josh Brock, president of the Rowlett Firefighters Association, told the Rowlett City Council that “100% of the firefighters in this department” stand together in opposition to how the city handled the fire chief hiring process and related personnel moves. Brock said the city launched a nationwide search, selected four finalists, then changed the process after the manager who initiated the search was removed, leading to withdrawals and the insertion of at least one outside candidate who never applied.

"When a preferred qualification is applied as a disqualifier to one person while the process is simultaneously open to individuals who never went through it at all, that is not a merit based selection," Brock said, arguing the shift created the appearance of a predetermined outcome and eroded trust. He also denied the city's public accusation that the association discouraged candidates, saying the claim was untrue and asking the council for an acknowledgment and apology.

Multiple residents and family members echoed Brock during an extended public-comment period, calling for greater transparency and continuity in department leadership. Speakers cited recent firings — including the emergency management coordinator — and the replacement of an interim fire chief as examples of actions that undermined morale and the department's ability to recruit and retain talent.

Several speakers urged the council to pause major personnel or contracting decisions until the incoming council and the public can review processes and restore trust. Council did not take formal disciplinary action at the meeting; no vote on personnel matters took place. The public speakers asked for clear next steps and urged the council to hold leadership accountable and to publicly address the concerns raised by the fire department.