October 1, 2019
The City of South Bend announced today that Fire Department Chief Steve Cox will be leaving the City on Friday, October 4, after being appointed as Indiana State Fire Marshal by Governor Eric Holcomb.
Cox was sworn onto the South Bend Fire Department in 1993 and has served in several different roles within the department over the past 26 years. He was promoted to the Fire Chief by Mayor Buttigieg in February 2012. Under his leadership, the South Bend Fire Department opened three new fire stations and the Luther J. Taylor Fire Training Center, achieved an improved ISO rating of 2, pioneered emergency response drone technology, and solidified its reputation as a top swiftwater rescue department. During his time as chief of the department, he led change to the EMS and Training Divisions that focused on improved service and efficiency and a more robust community risk reduction program which built on the department’s smoke alarm distribution and installation program. His focus on continuous improvement in the fire department has led to excellent and accountable service.
“I want to thank Chief Cox for a sterling seven and a half years leading the South Bend Fire Department,” said Mayor Pete Buttigieg. “Chief presided over a transformative time for the SBFD, and he leaves it as one of the best departments in the country. I wish him the best as he begins his new role of Indiana State Fire Marshal.”
“I’m honored to have been able to serve the citizens of South Bend for the past 26 years and to have the Public’s trust while serving the past 7-plus years as Fire Chief,” said Chief Cox. “The Mayor’s and Administration’s support has been amazing and has helped us achieve excellence. Of course, success couldn’t have been possible without the great work performed by the men and women of the South Bend Fire Department and I thank them for the job they do every day. They are true professionals.”
Assistant Fire Chief Todd Skwarcan has been named interim Chief, effective October 5.
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