Cathedral City Hires New Fire Chief

A 35-year veteran firefighter began work Monday as the new chief of the Cathedral City Fire Department.

Paul Wilson, who most recently worked as chief of the department in Sun Lakes, Arizona, replaces former Chief Robert Van Nortrick, who retired at the end of December.

Battalion Chief John Muhr had occupied the position since then on an interim basis.

“I am committed to upholding the excellent medical, fire prevention and fire suppression standards expected by our residents as I, too, am now a Cathedral City homeowner,” Wilson said. “Over the next few months, I plan to reach out and get to know the residents, business owners and local organizations to determine how we can make living in Cathedral City a safe and more pleasant experience.”

Wilson, who has more than 20 years of fire administration experience, also served as chief in Menlo Park.

“His experience and wealth of knowledge makes him an ideal person to command the Cathedral City Fire Department,” city manager Charlie McClendon said.

— City News Service.