City names four finalists for Austin Fire Chief

For immediate release
Oct. 9, 2008

Austin City Manager Marc Ott today announced the four finalists chosen to proceed to the next phase of the selection process for Austin Fire Chief.

The finalists are:

• Randy Bruegman, Fire Chief, Fresno, Calif.
• Niles Ford, Fire Chief, Lincoln, Neb., Fire and Rescue.
• Richard Gracia, Deputy Fire Chief of Support Services, Las Vegas, Nev., Fire and Rescue.
• Rhoda Mae Kerr, Fire Chief, Little Rock, Ark., Fire Department.

"Our nationwide search has produced a diverse group of highly experienced fire safety professionals," Ott said. "We are proud of the search results thus far and look forward to finding out more about these candidates in their respective communities."

The process will now include site visits of the finalists' cities by Austin officials. The next phase will include meetings with the Mayor and Council, an interview with the City Manager and a forum that will allow for interaction between the community and the candidates.

The Fire Chief position involves the appointment by the City Manager and confirmation by the City Council.

The nationwide search was facilitated by consultant Arcus Public.