Manassas Selects Fire, Rescue Chief

Will Head Newly Created Department

The city of Manassas announced Monday that Michael L. Wood from the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department will head the newly created Manassas Fire and Rescue Department.

Wood, who most recently served as deputy fire chief and emergency services coordinator in Fairfax, will assume the position Nov. 10.

"Chief Wood's experience in fire, rescue and emergency management and his style of leadership are an outstanding match to create the new Fire and Rescue Department in Manassas," City Manager Lawrence D. Hughes said in a news release. "He really has the right combination of experience and skills."

The city received more than 50 applications for the fire and rescue position. Hughes, Prince William County Fire and Rescue Chief Kevin McGee and a panel of fire, rescue and public safety personnel conducted all interviews, ultimately selecting Wood because of his array of experience.

Wood has more than 30 years of fire and rescue experience. He has served as a battalion chief overseeing 34 Fairfax fire stations and as an EMS captain overseeing six rescue stations.

In Manassas, Wood will supervise a staff of 34. Hughes said one of Wood's first tasks will be to evaluate the department and determine what adjustments need to be made in terms of personnel and equipment.

Hughes said Manassas is in the midst of hiring 11 fire and rescue personnel, something City Council members wanted to commence before a chief was hired. The council budgeted roughly $1.14 million in the fiscal 2009 budget to fill those positions.