Brad Hardin / City of Fayetteville
Mayor Lioneld Jordan has appointed Assistant Fire Chief Brad Hardin as Fayetteville’s new department chief, effective immediately. Hardin has served as interim director since late June when David Dayringer retired.
Hardin began his career in Fayetteville in 2000, and has since held every rank in the department, including firefighter, driver, captain, battalion chief and assistant chief.
Jordan said Hardin has a comprehensive knowledge of the department’s internal logistics and the city of Fayetteville, which is part of what makes him a good fit for the position.
“His calm demeanor, leadership skills, and dedication to our firefighters were all factors in my selection,” said Jordan. “I know he will continue to expand the city’s diversity recruitment and exceptional training programs. I’m particularly interested in his ideas for measuring our resources and how the department can maximize service to our residents, students and businesses.”
Hardin is a published author with research focusing on collecting and analyzing data. His research has received national recognition from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and was instrumental in developing a new standard of measure for the department. Jordan said Hardin helped write the department’s $15.8 million proposal in the bond election approved by voters in April. The plan includes construction of three new fire stations and the replacement of two fire engines and a ladder truck.
Hardin said former chief Dayringer helped him realize his potential.
“He saw something in me I didn’t even know existed,” said Hardin. “Over the past decade he poured his heart and soul into our department. Through his efforts I developed a desire to serve at the executive level. I am honored the mayor believed in me and is willing to give me the opportunity to serve. I care deeply about our firefighters and residents. I look forward to continuing to serve our city.”
Jordan said Hardin’s successor as assistant fire chief will come from within the department, and that testing and selection will occur in August.
