Fire Chiefs should not be unilaterally appointed by Mayors - period. These vacancies must be advertised and candidates put through an independent assessment process that selects the right person, with the right attributes, and approved by a selection committee.
Strong communication skills are fundamental and the need for a communications coach for Apopka’s Chief highlights a flawed appointment system.
The fire service is an industry of constant risk assessment in everything it does. Policies are written to identify risks, and create procedures that become part of the staff training program. That process should apply to all equipment, especially 4500lb trailers with a history of concern. The absence of this confirms a lack of experience in management. The Duran family are paying the ultimate price for that lack of experience.
The Mayor did the right thing in commissioning independent reviews, but it is how he treated and criticized the findings that has let him down and caused so much unnecessary frustration. When reports identify weaknesses in a fire department, a Mayor with no real understanding of the industry should accept facts and follow expert advice. There is no logical reason to criticize and threaten the experts, give perfect evaluations to management, and refuse to hold anyone accountable. It makes no sense. Neither does stopping an internal investigation. That's why people are angry.
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