Mayor Donna Deegan, left, listens as Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Chief Keith Powers speaks during a news conference Nov. 30, 2023. | Dan Scanlan, Jacksonville Today
Published on June 25, 2025 at 1:16 pm
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The choice for chief at the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department is down to five finalists who are completing interviews with Mayor Donna Deegan.
The mayor’s office could announce its selection by the end of this month, which is Monday. City Council must confirm the selection.
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The search for a new chief started when current Chief Keith Powers announced his retirement in May after 29 years with the department, six of those leading it. His retirement is effective Sunday.
Seventeen candidates applied for the position, and interviews were held with all of them, city officials say. Now it is down to the finalists:
- Fire Prevention Deputy Division Chief Damian Bell.
- Rescue Division Chief Jake Blanton.
- Emergency Preparedness Deputy Division Chief Percy Golden.
- Battalion Chief Darin Hooten.
- Deputy Director Willie King.
BELL: Bell’s resume cover letter says he has over a decade of “progressively responsible leadership experience” in the department as a lieutenant, captain, district chief and his current spot.
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“I also played an integral role in building the (fire protection technology) for the department’s new EMS and fire documentation software solution, as well as the replacement for the fire prevention inspection system,” the letter states.
BLANTON: Blanton says he has served the department for 30 years, rising through every rank.
“Motivating others to do their very best is important to the success of any organization,” his resume states. “I truly enjoy working as part of a team, fully recognizing each team member will bring with them varying ideas and perspectives.”
GOLDEN: Percy Golden cites his “extensive experience” in firefighting, plus leadership, emergency medical services and emergency management over 21 years.
“Throughout my career with JFRD, I have a proven track record of various roles of successfully leading firefighting operations, ensuring the safety and well-being of personnel and the public,” his resume said. “During my time as a fire station captain, I successfully managed several teams of firefighters, overseeing their training development and performance.”
HOOTEN: Hooten states that he wants to “continue my passion for positive, effective leadership” as chief after a 29-year career.
KING: King describes himself as a “seasoned fire service executive” with more than two decades of leadership experience in emergency response, operations management and personnel development within the department.
“Brings deep experience in emergency medical services, disaster response, interagency coordination, and regulatory compliance,” it states.
