Deputy Fire hief Chad Johnson has been selectd to be Podrtland’s next Fire Chief.  Johnston joined the POoand Fire Department in 1999.    The city council must confirm his appointment in its December 16 meeting.  If confirmed, his salary will be $135,516 annually and begin his role on December 17.  Unil that time, assistant Chief Chris Goodall is serving as the Acting Chief.

The Portland Fire Department is more than 240 years old with   211 sworn positions and a budget of nearly $22 million.  The department responds to 5,250 fire service and 13,800 EMS calls annually.  Johnston is expected to graduate with a Bacheler’s Degree in Fire Administration from Columbia Southern University in February 2025.

Curiously, the city’s press release did not mention long-time Fire Department Chief Keith Gautreau in this press release who is Johnston’s immediate predecessor.