Mayor Andrew Ginther announced that he has selected Interim Chief Jeffrey Happ to be the next Fire Chief for the City of Columbus. The announcement comes after a “thorough and thoughtful” search, according to a press release from the mayor’s office.
“I am confident Chief Happ will take this opportunity to leverage his experience and relationships to create change and position the Division of Fire as a model for the country,” Mayor Ginther said in a statement.
Mayor Ginther has charged Happ with “laying the groundwork” for carrying out recommendations from an upcoming independent review of the division’s policies, especially recommendations designed to create an inclusive environment and provide opportunities for women and people of color in fire service.
“I am extremely grateful and humbled by this opportunity,” said Fire Chief Happ. “This was not anything I ever imagined for myself when I started with Columbus Fire almost 28 years ago. The chance to lead and help shape and improve this great division means the world to me.”