Austin Fire Chief Steps Down | Texas News

After seven years leading the Austin Fire Department and a 40-year career in public safety, Fire Chief Joel Baker is stepping down at the end of August. Under his leadership, five new fire stations opened, wildfire prevention efforts surged, and the department weathered the pandemic. He also served as president of the Texas Fire Chiefs Association. Starting September 1, Chief of Staff Tom Vocke will take the reins as interim chief while the city launches a nationwide search for a permanent leader. City Manager T.C. Broadnax praised Baker’s professionalism and legacy of improved service, while the Austin Firefighters Association congratulated Vocke and thanked Baker for his decades of dedication, confident the department will remain strong under his leadership as they seek its next chief. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/351307320b05caf8