Palo Alto Fire Department seeks diverse candidates for chief position

Palo Alto's Finance Committee convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss the recruitment process for a new fire chief, emphasizing the importance of experience, diversity, and communication skills in potential candidates. The committee highlighted the need for candidates with substantial backgrounds in fire service, ideally with 15 to 20 years of experience and several years in leadership roles.

A key point of discussion was the unique position of Palo Alto, which has been providing paramedic transport since the 1970s, making it one of the few departments in California with specific health and safety code rights. This historical context shapes the criteria for selecting candidates, as the committee seeks individuals familiar with both fire and ambulance services.

Concerns were raised about the minimum experience requirements, with some members suggesting that a five-year threshold might be too lenient. The committee agreed that a more selective approach would be beneficial, allowing for a thorough vetting process to ensure candidates meet the department's high standards.

Diversity in recruitment was also a significant theme, with committee members advocating for candidates who reflect the community's demographics. The current fire chief, Blackshire, was praised for his efforts in diversifying the department, which is seen as crucial for effective community engagement during emergencies.

Communication skills emerged as another critical requirement, particularly in light of recent public perceptions regarding the department's responsiveness to incidents. The committee emphasized the need for a chief who can effectively communicate with the community and other city departments, ensuring transparency and trust.

Looking ahead, the committee plans to refine the candidate criteria further, focusing on leadership qualities, experience with wildfire prevention, and the ability to collaborate with other agencies. The recruitment process is expected to move forward promptly, with the committee eager to attract a candidate who embodies these essential characteristics.