Jonathon Jackson's title, for now, is interim fire commissioner of Detroit -- which doesn't keep him from talking about a new way of doing things at the Detroit Fire Department.
Jonathon Jackson, interim fire commissioner, joined the department 25 years ago. (Photo via Fox 2 News)
Randy Wimbley of Fox 2 speaks with the 25-year department veteran, chosen by Mayor Mike Duggan as interim successor to Donald Austin:
Jackson says 2014 will be a big year for Detroit and he plans on retooling the department from top to bottom. "Business as usual in the Detroit Fire Department especially as it relates to equipment is just not going to cut it anymore."
Jackson is also pushing to reopen fire companies, hire more firefighters and cross-train those already on the job to handle EMS duties. . . .
Eight new arson investigators may be coming to the city. Another possible change: firefighters may no longer be promoted based on seniority. The 100-year-tradition may soon change so that testing determines who's in charge and who's not.
Jackson, appointed Dec. 23, had been second deputy fire commissioner. Austin resigned Dec. 3.
The post will be filled permanently by June after a national search. Duggan says in a statement that he met with Jackson several times and is "very impressed with his leadership skills. Conversations with several leaders in the Fire Department and several union leaders showed the broad support Mr. Jackson has across the department.”
Earlier coverage:
Detroit Fire Commissioner Donald Austin Is Out Dec. 31, Dec. 3
