VIDEO: The Columbia City Council approved the Columbia Fire Department’s request to add positions within the department at Monday’s meeting. The ordinance amended the fiscal year 2025 budget to add two fire battalion chiefs. The two fire battalion chief positions will bring in more leadership to the department and prepare it for high risk events and work on the paramedic program.ย
The battalion chief of emergency medical services will be in charge of coordinating and leading the paramedic program. This chief will “oversee the course delivery, monitor clinical hours completion, and coordinate testing and certification with the state of Missouri,” according to the council agenda.
The battalion chief of special operations will oversee the department’s needs in response to hazardous materials, water rescue operations and more. According to the city council agenda, the chief will also serve as the department’s liaison with emergency operations management centers locally and statewide.
