In a move to bolster its public safety framework, the City of Union, Ohio, officially announced a significant upgrade to its leadership structure within its emergency services departments today. With this strategic shift, the city aims to more efficiently manage the distinct complexities that each of the Police and Fire & EMS departments face. As endorsed by the city's leadership, the reorganization comes into effect immediately.
Assistant Fire Chief Zach Marvin, who has been climbing the ranks since 2009, was appointed as the new Fire Chief. Chief Mike Blackwell, a veteran who helmed the Public Safety Director position, wearing the dual hats of both Police Chief and Fire Chief since 2006, will now, surprisingly to some, be exclusively focusing his efforts as the Police Chief. This change reflects an understanding by the city’s administration that both departments have grown more complex and now require specialized attention.
Reflecting on this organizational evolution, Chief Blackwell commented, "This is a move that benefits the entire community," during a City of Union, Ohio announcement. He continued, "It allows me to dedicate my focus to leading the Police Department through its increasingly complex challenges, while knowing the Fire Department is in the hands of a truly prepared leader." Blackwell, with his extensive background, remains committed to directing the police force towards adapting to modern public safety demands.
Embracing his new responsibilities, incoming Fire Chief Zach Marvin also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Wright State University and has fulfilled long-standing responsibilities as the City’s Information Technology Administrator since 2016. Excited about his new horizon, Marvin stated, "I am honored to lead the Union Fire Department and maintain my connection to the city’s essential IT functions," according to a social media post from the City of Union, Ohio. The city is now looking towards a future where public safety services are not only robust but also nuanced enough to meet specific community needs.
