As Coquitlam looks for a new fire chief, Port Coquitlam is announcing a replacement for its city.
Today, Jan. 25, the municipality said Blake Clarkson will take over the role from Chief Robert Kipps on March 14.
Kipps is retiring after 35 years of service with PoCo’s Fire and Emergency Services department.
Currently the deputy fire chief of administration and support, Clarkson has 18 years of fire service. A Pitt Meadows resident and assistant hockey coach, Clarkson has his bachelor’s degree in science in kinesiology and a professional development certificate.
“I look forward to serving the community of Port Coquitlam in this new role and continuing the excellent work of the department,” said Clarkson in a news release.
“Our fire department has a long history of dedicated and professional service to the community and I look forward to building on this foundation of excellence and commitment to the community I am a part of in the years to come.”
As fire chief, Clarkson will be on the city’s senior management team and oversee 84 members of PoCo’s Fire and Emergency Services Department.
In a news release, Mayor Brad West congratulated Clarkson on his new job and thanked Kipps for his leadership.
“We are grateful for his efficient and effective service to the city. I wish him all the best as he begins this exciting new chapter.”
The position change in Port Coquitlam comes as Coquitlam is recruiting for a fire chief.
Jim Ogloff was recently promoted to general manager of a new city department: community safety.
