London’s temporary top fire official now gets to wear the fire chief’s hat permanently.
The city announced Monday morning that acting fire chief Lori Hamer has been officially appointed to the role of fire chief for the London Fire Department.
The change comes into effect immediately.
“I look forward to serving our community and the department as fire chief,” said Hamer.
“Over the past few months, I’ve spent much of my time talking to our members. I’m very proud to work alongside the men and women of the London Fire Department and I’m excited about the opportunity to step into this leadership role on a permanent basis.”
Hamer began her fire service almost 20 years ago, when she joined the communications division of the Kitchener Fire Department. She joined the London Fire Department in 2016 as deputy chief, and was named acting Chief in March after John Kobarda unexpectedly retired.
At the time, there had been a wave of workplace harassment allegations coming from civic workers all across London. Many of the complaints came from within the fire department and city hall.
Hamer says she is committed to working with members of the London fire department and moving forward to help build a strong department.
Hamer tells 980 CFPL she met with some of the crews, employees and divisions to get input on changes they wanted to see in the future.
“It’s still going to take work, obviously there is still some things that need to heal from the past but as I said we are committed to working together,” Hamer said.
“I am committed to employee engagement and just gaining the input of the members of the London fire department to see what they need to see moving forward.”
In a statement, the city says Hamer was chosen for the role after a national recruitment process.