The City of Portland is proud to announce Lauren Johnson has been named the new chief of the Portland Fire & Rescue Bureau โ marking one of the first long-term hires for a senior leadership position in the cityโs new form of government. Johnson is currently serving as an assistant fire chief at the Dallas Fire-Rescue Department, where she has worked for the past 26 years.
โIt is truly an honor to be named the next Chief of Portland Fire & Rescue,โ Johnson said. โIโm eager to collaborate with the dedicated team of City staff and elected officials who are passionate about shaping the future of public safety in Portland.โ Johnsonโs first day will be Aug. 18. โChief Johnsonโs deep experience and thoughtful leadership will be a strong addition to Portland Fire & Rescue. I look forward to working alongside her as we continue building a safer, more connected city for all Portlanders,โ Mayor Keith Wilson said.
Interim Chief AJ Jackson will remain in her role for the next two months to help Johnson transition into the new role. โChief Johnson is a dedicated public servant with a stellar background and vision for our City, and weโre very excited to see her take the lead of our organization,โ Interim Chief Jackson said. Johnson will oversee Portland Fire & Rescueโs 744 employees and nearly $200 million annual budget and will report directly to Interim Deputy City Administrator for Public Safety Bob Cozzie.
