Alex Jackson Confirmed as Fire Chief
Mayor Rybak’s nominee confirmed by unanimous City Council vote
July 25, 2008 (MINNEAPOLIS) – Mayor R.T. Rybak today applauded the City Council for unanimously confirming his nominee Alex Jackson to be the City of Minneapolis’ 16th Fire Chief, as well as its first African American Fire Chief.
“Chief Jackson not only knows how to build a strong leadership team, he knows how to inspire that team,” Mayor Rybak said. “In a city that has proven itself on emergency preparedness and response, Jackson is the right person to lead our fire department into the future. I am confident that with Chief Jackson at the helm, we can continue our aggressive focus to keep Minneapolis safe.”
“I’m constantly impressed by Chief Jackson’s quiet demeanor and the thoughtfulness he brings to his work,” said City Council President Barbara Johnson. “His long experience in the fire department will be a strong asset to our city.”
“For nearly three decades Chief Jackson has served Minneapolis with tremendous integrity,” said Ward 5 City Council Member Don Samuels, who chairs the Council’s Public Safety and Regulatory Services Committee. “I know that in his role as Chief, he will shine even more brightly.”
“I am deeply honored that the Mayor and City Council have chosen me to lead the fire department and I will do my best to ensure that we keep our sharp focus on protecting public safety,” Jackson said. “We are a strong department and we deliver top-notch service to the residents of Minneapolis – a practice that will not change under my leadership.”
Chief Jackson has been with the Minneapolis Fire Department for more than 27 years. Prior to becoming Chief, Jackson served as Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief of Personnel, Fire Captain, Fire Motor Operator and Firefighter. As Fire Chief, Jackson will manage a staff of 450 and an operating budget of more than $50 million. Jackson has been serving as Interim Fire Chief since April when former Chief Jim Clack left to serve as the Fire Chief for the City of Baltimore.
An official swearing in ceremony for Chief Jackson will be held in the City Hall Rotunda at 1:00pm on Friday, August 8th.
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