James Wallace Appointed as New Chief of Baltimore City Fire Department

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott announced on Wednesday that James Wallace has been appointed as the new chief of the Baltimore City Fire Department, effective immediately. This decision comes after eight months of interim leadership within the department.

Wallace, who has dedicated 33 years to the fire department, previously served as the director of the Mayor’s Office of Emergency Management since 2020. His role there encompassed managing responses to various emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic and severe weather events.

During a press conference, Wallace expressed his commitment to the role, stating, "I remain as committed to my job as I did when I began in 1990." He began his career as a paramedic, later becoming a firefighter/paramedic, and has held several leadership positions, including battalion chief and deputy chief.

Mayor Scott plans to formally present Wallace’s nomination to the City Council at their upcoming meeting on August 21, where it will require council approval to make his position permanent.

Scott praised Wallace’s extensive experience and leadership, stating, "I know that under Chief Wallace’s unmatched leadership and experience, our Fire Department will continue to excel in its mission and further enhance its services to the community."

The appointment follows the resignation of former Chief Niles Ford, who stepped down after a critical report highlighted issues related to firefighter deaths at a 2021 fire. In the interim, Assistant Chiefs Charles Svehla, Chris Caisse, and Dante Stewart had been rotating in the chief role, but that arrangement faced criticism for lacking effective management.

Union leaders have voiced support for Wallace, with Josh Fannon, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 964, emphasizing the need for a clear chain of command. Matthew Coster, president of IAFF Local 734, acknowledged that while some members may know Stewart better, there is no clear preference between the two leaders.

Wallace is expected to address significant challenges within the department, including staffing, pay, and equipment issues. He noted that he would continue the work initiated by interim chiefs to implement recommendations from the critical report.

In response to inquiries about his residency, Mayor Scott confirmed that Wallace has discussed living in Baltimore, underscoring the city charter's requirement for cabinet members to be residents.

Reported by HarborBeat based on thebanner.com (source).