JACKSONVILLE, Fla., November 12, 2019 — Mayor Lenny Curry is pleased to announce that Keith Powers, who has been serving as Interim Director and Fire Chief of the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department since June 1, 2019, is now permanently appointed to the position.

“Keith has been an exemplary member of JFRD for more than 23 years and has served in a number of leadership roles,” Mayor Curry said. “While serving as Interim Chief, he guided the department through budget, storm season, and a number of high-profile public safety initiatives. Jacksonville will be well served with Chief Powers continuing in this role.”

Director and Chief Powers started his career in 1994 with the Nassau County Fire and Rescue Department where he was quickly promoted to Engineer. In 1996, he joined JFRD where he soon moved to the rank to Captain. Throughout his career with JFRD, Powers has demonstrated proven leadership in multiple areas. From 2013 to 2015, Powers served as Captain of JFRD Tactical Support Facility. He also briefly served as Manager of JFRD Administrative Services in 2015 before being appointed Division Chief of Operations in August of that same year. Powers served as Division Chief until he was appointed Interim Director and Chief in June of 2019.

UPDATE: On January 14, 2020, City Council unanimously confirmed Powers' appointment as Director/Fire Chief.