VENTURA : City Picks Fresno Official as Fire Chief
Dennis J. Downs, a 15-year veteran with the Fresno Fire Department, was named Ventura fire chief Wednesday, officials announced.
Ventura City Manager John Baker described Downs as a “team player” with strong experience in firefighting as well as management.
“I am very pleased to be able to appoint someone with Dennis’ experience and depth to lead the Ventura Fire Department through the remainder of the 1990s,” Baker said.
Downs could not reached for comment Wednesday.
Downs replaces Vern Hamilton, who left to become chief of the Milpitas Fire Department. He will relieve Assistant Fire Chief Ken Hess, who has been acting fire chief.
Downs will begin in Ventura on July 11.
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