The City of Duncanville is set to declare Chris Connealy as their official Fire Chief pick. After undergoing an extensive search initiated by the retirement of former Fire Chief Sam Rohde, city officials have pinpointed a sole candidate to lead their fire department. The search process, starting with a pool of 27 applicants, included rigorous interviews and assessments to ensure the most qualified individual was chosen.
In a statement from the city manager, as reported by the City of Duncanville, Douglas E. Finch remarked, "I am happy to announce the selection of Chris Connealy as the City’s lone Fire Chief finalist." The city's search, assisted by T2 Professional Consulting, included a community survey to pinpoint desired qualities, a critical step in the process that no doubt played a part in Connealy's selection.
Connealy's qualifications are extensive, with a career in public safety spanning over four decades. Starting with the Houston Fire Department in 1978 and climbing the ladder to the fire chief, he's also served as the fire chief of the Cedar Park Fire Department and later as Texas' State Fire Marshal. With his appointment as Senior Director of Emergency Services in Williamson County in 2018, Connealy continued to expand on an already impressive resume that includes national public speaking and multiple publications on fire protection.
His official confirmation awaits the outcome of the Duncanville City Council meeting on September 3. The city manager will present a resolution to the council to confirm Mr. Connealy as Duncanville's new Fire Chief. Once this formal process concludes, the city plans to introduce the new chief to the Duncanville community with a swearing-in ceremony.
