San Antonio Welcomes New Fire Chief Amid Exciting Changes
The city of San Antonio is buzzing with excitement as they prepare to welcome their new fire chief, Deputy Chief Valerie Frausto, who has been a beloved member of the San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD) for over 24 years. Her official start date is set for November 1, pending a City Council approval expected next Thursday.
Valerie Frausto: A Homegrown Leader
Valerie Frausto was chosen from a competitive pool of over 65 applicants in a nationwide search. According to San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh, she was recognized as the ideal candidate due to her “exceptional leadership in all aspects of the Fire Department” and her commitment to the community where she grew up.
Since joining the SAFD in August 2000, Chief Frausto has held a variety of roles, from frontline firefighting to administrative leadership. Her work has consistently led to positive changes within the department, as she has implemented new operational strategies and streamlined processes to improve overall efficiency.
New Initiatives and Ongoing Changes
As the interim chief since January, following the retirement of former Chief Charles Hood, Frausto has already showcased her leadership by launching the Hero Like Her recruiting campaign. This initiative aims to inspire young women to pursue careers in firefighting, a field that has historically seen a significant gender gap.
A Department Marked by Controversy
It’s worth noting that the appointment of a new chief comes during a turbulent period for the SAFD. The previous chief, Charles Hood—who made history as the department’s first African American leader—was forced to retire earlier this year following an incident that city leaders described as “inappropriate and offensive.”
In addition, during the search for a new chief, former fire union president Chris Steele found himself in legal trouble, facing felony stalking charges related to allegations of attempting to intimidate Frausto out of applying for the top job.
Community Responses
The San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association was quick to express their support for Frausto’s appointment. Association President Joe Jones emphasized the significance of having a competent chief in the wake of recent issues. He highlighted that “cleaning up Mr. Hood’s mess” requires a mixture of talent, dedication, strategy, intelligence, compassion, and determination—qualities that he believes Frausto possesses in abundance.
City Manager Walsh echoed Jones’ sentiments, stating that he is confident Frausto will enhance professional development, mentorship, and succession programs within the department. Her extensive experience and commitment to fostering talent promise exciting developments ahead for the SAFD and the community as a whole.
Looking Ahead
As Chief Frausto prepares to step into her new role, the community is hopeful about the positive changes she will bring. With a keen understanding of both the challenges and opportunities within the fire department, her leadership could usher in a new era of accountability, empowerment, and service to the citizens of San Antonio.
All eyes are on her as November approaches, and the excitement in the air hints at the fresh beginnings ahead for the San Antonio Fire Department. Here’s to hoping for an engaging and transformative chapter under Chief Valerie Frausto’s leadership!
