Kaua’i Fire Chief Robert Westerman announced Monday the appointment of John Blalock as Kaua‘i’s first deputy fire chief. Blalock is currently captain of the fire department’s Training Bureau and will start work as deputy chief Sept. 1. According to a
Kaua’i Fire Chief Robert Westerman announced Monday the appointment of John Blalock as Kaua‘i’s first deputy fire chief.
Blalock is currently captain of the fire department’s Training Bureau and will start work as deputy chief Sept. 1.
According to a county statement, the position was added this fiscal year to meet the demands of the island’s growing population and the corresponding increase in fire department personnel.
In fact, this summer has seen an unprecedented number of brush fires, with more than a dozen last month alone.
In November 2006, residents voted to establish a Fire Commission to develop a comprehensive management plan for the fire department.
Currently, there are 133 firefighters, 34 lifeguards and eight administrative personnel in the department.
“(Blalock) shares the same vision and enthusiasm for the development of our strategic plan as the Fire Commission and me,” Westerman said in a press release.
In his new position, Blalock will be responsible for the department’s daily operations and management of the different bureaus, including administrative, line operations, ocean safety, prevention and training.
He will also assist the fire chief with the formulation of policy and procedures, development of long-range plans and coordination of services.
“I’ve always felt that it’s an honor and a privilege to serve the department and the community,” Blalock said in the release.
Blalock has been with the Kaua‘i Fire Department for 12 years, and has served as training captain, engine and rescue operator, and firefighter.
Blalock holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo and is a 1978 graduate of Kapa‘a High School.
