Big news for Jacksonville's bravest today, as Mayor Donna Deegan announced new leadership appointments within the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD). In a significant shift in the department's top ranks, Emergency Preparedness Division Deputy Chief Percy Golden II has been named the new Chief of JFRD, while Rescue Division Chief Jake Blanton will step into the role of Deputy Chief. According to an official announcement from the City of Jacksonville, these appointments follow a thorough six-week selection process involving 17 candidates and five finalists.
Mayor Deegan has expressed pride in her decision. “It’s with great pride that I’m appointing Percy Golden II to be the next Chief of JFRD,” she said. Chief Golden II, with 21 years of experience in various leadership roles, has been recognized for his leadership during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple hurricanes. The reshuffling also includes Jake Blanton, a three-decade veteran of the department, as the new Deputy Chief, as per the City of Jacksonville's announcement.
The leadership overhaul doesn't stop there. Willie King has been named Manager of Strategic Initiatives, Dallas Cooke as Chief of Rescue, James Schaudel as Deputy Chief of Emergency Preparedness, with Terrance Holmes as Deputy Chief of Fire Operations and Chris Scott assuming the role of Deputy Chief of Admin Services. These changes are positioned to bring a renewed focus to JFRD which, under Mayor Deegan's administration, aims to uphold its reputation as a top-tier department.
Chief Golden II echoed the sentiment of accountability to the city of Jacksonville in his response to the appointment. "I want to express my heartfelt thanks to Mayor Deegan for the confidence and trust that she has placed in me to lead this department," Chief Golden II told the City of Jacksonville's officials.
