Fredericksburg's Selects Deputy To Succeed Allen As Fire Chief

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — The city of Fredericksburg has named Michael Jones as its new fire chief, succeeding Eddie Allen, who will retire in March. Jones, who is the city's deputy chief for the fire department, was hired by the city as a firefighter in 1983 and steadily rose through the ranks as a lieutenant, captain and batallion chief.

Jones has served as deputy fire chief since 2012. He holds an A.A.S. in Fire Science and has served as an officer and instructor for the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.

Allen, who is retiring, worked in the Fredericksburg Fire Department for 45 years, the last 16 as fire chief. The outgoing fire chief expressed his support for Jones' promotion to chief, saying he expects the fire department wil grow and continue its traditions of excellence under Jones.

"Mike has a depth of experience and knowledge of fire and rescue service that makes him well-qualified for this promotion," Fredericksburg City Manager Tim Baroody said Dec. 18 in a statement. "He has a deep understanding of the Fredericksburg Fire Department's culture and future needs. I am confident he can lead the department through transformational changes in the city in the years to come."

Jones oversaw a 2017 analysis of the fire station needs of the department, resulting in the Manitou Study, which made recommendations on fire service staffing and integrating the Fredericksburg Rescue Squad into the city's public safety services. Among Jones' current duties are personnel management, procurement and project management.

Fredericksburg also is searching for a new chief of police. Police Chief David Nye announced in November that he will be leaving his position on Jan. 24