As reported by CBS8, Mayor Todd Gloria announced on Wednesday that Deputy San Diego Fire-Rescue Department Chief Robert Logan II has been named the city’s next fire chief.
The appointment, following a three-month search, is pending City Council approval in July.
Logan is set to take over from Chief Colin Stowell, who will retire in August.
Logan, a lifelong San Diegan, currently serves as the deputy fire chief overseeing employee services, managing six divisions within the SDFD.
In his new role, he aims to reintroduce the fire department to the public through initiatives like Volunteer with the Chief.
Logan emphasized the importance of public involvement: “I want to make this a collaborative thing, global thing and something that’s fun for the public.”
Logan also highlighted the need for the fire department to keep pace with technological advancements.
He stated: “We’ll be looking at some creative ways to innovate our fire service, to not only assure that we are meeting our response times but that the citizens of San Diego are getting the services they deserve.”
His focus includes improving response times and ensuring quality service delivery.
Prior to his current role, Logan served as deputy chief overseeing special operations, including air operations, the metro arson strike team, the hazardous incident response team, and special events/emergency management.
With over 24 years of service, he has risen through the ranks, demonstrating a deep commitment to the community and the welfare of Fire-Rescue employees.
Logan began his career with the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department as an emergency medical technician in 1999 and became a firefighter in 2000.
He co-founded Lincoln High School’s Fire Protection Program and is an active member of Women In Fire, a national organization empowering women in the fire and emergency services field.
Logan holds a bachelor’s degree from Southern New Hampshire University, a master’s in emergency services management from Columbia Southern University, and an executive chief fire officer certification.
Mayor Gloria expressed confidence in Logan’s leadership: “I am confident that under his leadership, the department will be well-served, the city will be well-served, and we will be able to innovate and excel in providing emergency response services to our residents and visitors alike.”
Outgoing Chief Colin Stowell, who has served with the SDFD for 36 years, endorsed Logan’s appointment.
Stowell said: “I have full confidence that Chief Logan will continue the legacy of this great department and lead with his exceptional integrity, commitment to serving our communities, and collaboration with all of our public safety partners.”
Stowell highlighted Logan’s respect among department members and community stakeholders, as well as his extensive SDFD experience and institutional knowledge.
Stowell, along with Mayor Gloria and City Council members Henry Foster and Marni von Wilpert, chair of the city council’s Public Safety Committee, joined in the announcement of Logan’s appointment.
Stowell expressed honor in serving as the fire chief and leading the dedicated professionals of the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department for the past six years.
