Alex Jackson sworn in as Fire Chief
August 8, 2008 (MINNEAPOLIS) – Alex Jackson was sworn in today as the City of Minneapolis’ 16th Fire Chief, as well as its first African-American Fire Chief. Along with Chief Jackson, the City Hall ceremony included remarks from Mayor R.T. Rybak, City Council President Barbara Johnson and Ward 5 Council Member Don Samuels.
“Chief Jackson not only knows how to build a strong leadership team, he knows how to inspire that team,” Mayor R.T. Rybak said. “In a city that has proven itself on emergency preparedness and response, Jackson has what it takes to lead our fire department into the future. With Chief Jackson at the helm, we will 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 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 and extremely thankful that the Mayor and City Council have chosen me to lead the fire department,” 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 Fire 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.
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