Mayor Sheila Dixon will announce the appointment of the Minneapolis fire chief as the new leader of the Baltimore City Fire Department today, city officials confirmed Tuesday evening
Chief Jim Clack, best known for his able handling of the aftermath of the devastating collapse of Interstate 35-W bridge near Minneapolis last August, is a 22-year veteran of that city?s fire department.
Clack will replace William Goodwin, who resigned Dec. 1, 2007.
“Clack?s calm, collected leadership during the I-35W Bridge collapse was one of the main reasons we were able to so effectively respond to one of the most serious disasters Minneapolis has ever known. We are sad to see him go and wish him the best in his new endeavors,” Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak told local television station KSTP after the fire chief?s impending departure was announced there.
Clack began his career as a member of the hazardous material team, and later worked as an assistant chief of training at the Minneapolis Fire Department.
His skilled leadership during the collapse of the bridge that resulted in the deaths of 13 people was lauded as crucial to limiting the death toll.
Union officials in Baltimore said Tuesday that they would not comment on the appointment.
“We committed the mayor?s office that we would not say anything until the appointment has been announced,” said Stephan Fugate, president of the Fire Officers union.
Fugate said last month that union members wanted an outsider to lead the department.
Goodwin?s tenure was marred by controversy over the death of fire cadet Racheal Wilson during a botched training exercise last February and alleged cheating on promotional tests.
Dixon?s news conference is scheduled for 11 a.m. at City Hall.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
