Title
A Resolution Confirming the Mayor’s Appointment of Randolph Royal as the Fire Chief
Presenter:
John Suthers, Mayor
Body
Summary:
City Charter § 4-40(f)(4) and City Code § 8.2.102(A) provide that the Mayor shall appoint a Fire Chief to serve at his pleasure, subject to confirmation by the concurring vote of a majority of the members of City Council. The duties of the Fire Chief are outlined in City Code § 8.2.104, which includes supervision and control of all members and employees assigned to the Colorado Springs Fire Department.
Background:
Colorado Springs Fire Chief Ted Collas will retire effective March 4, 2021. Mayor Suthers has selected Randolph Royal, who currently serves as Deputy Chief of the Colorado Springs Fire Department overseeing operations, as Chief Collas’ successor. Deputy Chief Royal was selected as the Fire Chief following a nationwide search from among 37 candidates.
Deputy Chief Royal started working for the Colorado Springs Fire Department in 1987 as a firefighter, but has also worked as a paramedic, battalion chief and shift commander. He has demonstrated leadership and tremendous work throughout his 34 years with the Colorado Springs Fire Department and is prepared to lead the department on its continued path of excellence. He understands the unique needs of the Colorado Springs community, and his experience includes leadership roles during the Waldo Canyon and Black Forest fires.
Deputy Chief Royal holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. He has also attained multiple specialization certifications. In addition, Deputy Chief Royal has received countless honors and awards associated with his career in fire service, authored chapters and articles in fire training publications, and served as an instructor both at a college level and at multiple conferences. He has an extensive history of volunteerism. Deputy Chief Royal has distinguished himself as an expert in the field of fire service and emergency medical response.
Previous Council Action:
There has been no prior City Council action on the proposed confirmation of Randolph Royal as Fire Chief.
Financial Implications:
If confirmed as Fire Chief, Randolph Royal’s initial salary will be set at $175,000 annually, together with applicable benefits. Such salary is within the salary range for Fire Chief established by City Ordinance No. 20-88, regarding the 2021 salary structure for civilian and sworn municipal employees.
City Council Appointed Board/Commission/Committee Recommendation:
N/A
Stakeholder Process:
The interview panels for the position of Fire Chief included representatives of the Mayor’s Office, City Human Resources, and City Council Members Wayne Williams and Jill Gaebler. Members of City Council have been provided additional opportunity to interview Deputy Chief Royal, and have been provided with Deputy Chief Royal’s application and resumé.
Alternatives:
Do not approve the proposed resolution.
Recommended Action
Proposed Motion:
Move for approval of the proposed resolution confirming appointment of Randolph Royal as the Colorado Springs Fire Chief.
Summary of Ordinance Language
For Ordinances, enter the substantive elements in 40 words or less for publication purposes. Enter N/A if not applicable.