When Cathedral City Fire Chief Van Nortick retired at the end of last year, city officials began their search for an experienced and energetic replacement who could fill his shoes. Now, they’ve found those qualities in former Sun Lakes, AZ Fire Chief Paul Wilson, an individual with over 35 years in administrative and firefighting experience.
Wilson began his new job Monday, with city officials expressing brimming expectations.
"His experience and wealth of knowledge makes him an ideal person to command the Cathedral City Fire Department," said City Manager Charlie McClendon. "Not only is he currently a fire chief, but he has also served as the past president and executive board member of the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association. We are fortunate to attract a candidate of his caliber and that says a lot about the reputation of the Cathedral City Fire Department and this city."
Before assuming the position in Sun Lakes, Wilson served as fire chief in Menlo Park. He holds a master of science in administration from California State University, Long Beach and completed the certified public manager program at Arizona State University in Tempe.
"Over the next few months, I plan to reach out and get to know the residents, business owners and local organizations to determine how we can make living in Cathedral City a safe and more pleasant experience," Wilson said in a statement.
Read more about Cathedral City’s new fire chief here.