In a move that marks a new chapter for Jacksonville's emergency services, Mayor Deegan has officially appointed Chief Percy Golden Jr. as the leader of the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD). As reported by the Jax Sheriff's Office in a recent social media post, this leadership change comes paired with continued aspirations for a strengthened partnership between the city's fire and rescue and law enforcement agencies.
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— Jax Sheriff's Office (@JSOPIO) June 30, 2025
I congratulate Chief Golden on his appointment by Mayor Deegan as the new leader of Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department. JSO and JFRD have long enjoyed a close working partnership, and I look forward to broadening our… pic.twitter.com/8CzSZeHMxR
"I congratulate Chief Golden on his appointment by Mayor Deegan as the new leader of Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department," states JSO's announcement on their official social media page. The JSO outlined plans to further collaborate, and indicated an existing positive relationship that they intend to significantly expand in the future to better serve the Jacksonville community. This comes at a time when inter-agency cooperation has proven itself to be more than just beneficial, but essential in meeting the evolving demands of urban safety and emergency response.
The post by the Jax Sheriff's Office also paid tribute to Chief Keith Powers, acknowledging his contributions and wishing him well in retirement. The tone of the message conveyed a sense of respect and appreciation for Powers's service to the city. "I am incredibly grateful for my friend Chief Keith Powers and the contributions he has made to public safety in our city during his tenure. I wish him the very best in his retirement," the post read.
JSO's public acknowledgment didn't stop at gratitude for the outgoing chief, as they pointedly expressed excitement for the JFRD's future trajectory under Golden’s guidance. Golden, praised for his dedication to public service and the city, seems well positioned to take on this crucial role. "His dedication to public service, our city, and collaboration with agencies like ours makes him a stellar choice for this important role," the JSO said, signaling the confidence they have in Chief Golden's capabilities to lead the JFRD forward.
The Jacksonville community can likely expect a seamless transition in leadership, with both the JSO and Mayor Deegan expressing confidence that JFRD will continue to perform at high standards. "JFRD will continue to be in good hands," the Jax Sheriff's Office post concluded, offering a final note of congratulations to both Chief Powers and Chief Golden on their respective retirements and appointments.
