Jacksonville Fire Chief Keith Powers Announces Retirement

Firefighters at a Jacksonville fire station

News Summary

Jacksonville is about to witness a significant leadership change as Fire Chief Keith Powers announces his retirement effective June 30, 2025. Mayor Donna Deegan is now in search of a successor to lead the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD). Among the 17 candidates, five are military veterans and the selection process will ensure the best fit for community safety and unity, despite past controversies surrounding a few candidates. The new chief will oversee a budget of $406 million and manage 68 fire stations across Duval County.

Jacksonville is preparing for a significant change in its fire department leadership as Fire Chief Keith Powers has announced his retirement, effective June 30, 2025. This transition has prompted Mayor Donna Deegan to initiate the search for a successor who will oversee the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD).

Currently, there are 17 candidates vying for the position of fire chief, each bringing a wealth of combined experience totaling over 330 years in the fire service. The applicants present a diverse array of educational qualifications, including bachelor’s, master’s, and two doctoral degrees, showcasing their preparedness for the role. Notably, five candidates are military veterans, contributing additional leadership experience to the pool of candidates.

The candidates come from varying backgrounds within the fire service, ranging from rank-and-file firefighters to individuals holding high-ranking positions such as District, Division, and Battalion Chief. Given the diversity and breadth of experience among the candidates, Mayor Deegan has committed to interviewing those she believes to be most qualified.

In her selection process, Mayor Deegan is focused on finding a candidate who can promote community unity while ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the fire department. The mayor’s task is complicated by the presence of two candidates, Todd Smith and Bryon Iveson, who have faced controversies in the past. Smith resigned from his position as Chief of Emergency Preparedness after sexual harassment claims surfaced in 2022. In Iveson’s case, he was reassigned to desk duty following an internal investigation for allegedly compelling a Muslim firefighter to break their Ramadan fast.

Mayor Deegan’s appointment will require confirmation from the Jacksonville City Council, which adds another layer to the selection process. The application period for the position closed on May 30, 2025, resulting in 12 applicants being deemed ineligible. The candidates who remain in contention are currently active members of the JFRD.

The new fire chief will be responsible for managing a budget of $406 million, overseeing 68 fire stations, and leading approximately 1,900 personnel throughout Duval County. Mayor Deegan had retained Chief Powers after her appointment in 2023 while also assembling a diverse set of top administrators to support her vision for the department.

Keith Powers has served as fire chief since November 2019 and has implemented innovative initiatives that included the introduction of mobile stroke units and a scholarship program for high school athletes. Even after announcing his retirement, Powers intends to remain engaged with the city as a mentor during the search for his successor.

Mayor Deegan has set a target to finalize her selection for the new chief by July 1, 2025, marking a crucial step in ensuring the future leadership of the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department as the city transitions from Chief Powers’ tenure into a new era.