Brady Bo Medlock was named Interim Fire Chief by the City of Cleveland on August 1. Cleveland City Manager Kevin Harris said he will be in charge of all departmental tasks and responsibilities during the leadership change.
Medlock joins the position with over a decade of fire department experience. In addition to working with the Helen Fire Department and the City of Cleveland Fire Department, he is currently Captain of the B Shift with the White County Fire Department.
After longtime chief Ricky Pruitt resigned, he will be Cleveland’s first new fire chief in more than three decades.
Bo’s willingness to take on this leadership role and give the fire department stability throughout this transition is greatly appreciated by the city council and myself,” Mayor Josh Turner stated. The city places a high focus on public safety, and this decision reaffirms our dedication to maintaining community safety.
Eager to lead
In 2011, Medlock started working as a volunteer for the White County Fire Department. In 2014, he started working for the City of Cleveland Fire Department. In his new position, he expressed his eagerness to lead the department.
Taking on this temporary position and serving our community in a new way is a true honor, Medlock added. I’m thrilled to be in charge of such a committed, diligent group, and I’m looking forward to expanding on our solid base while keeping safety, collaboration, and creativity as our top priorities. I try to continue the tradition that Chief Pruitt established.
According to city officials, they are dedicated to choosing a permanent fire chief through an open and thoughtful process. As the application window opens, more information about requirements and how to apply will be made public.
The City expressed gratitude to the fire department staff and the community for their unwavering commitment and assistance throughout the transition.
