Mayor Barker Names Interim Fire Chief

This is a press release from the city of Hattiesburg.

Hattiesburg, Mississippi – Mayor Toby Barker named Battalion Chief Stephen Mooney, a 20-year Hattiesburg Fire Department veteran, as his nominee for interim fire chief on Friday. Mooney will lead the department while Barker’s administration expeditiously continues its recruitment efforts to fill the chief position permanently.

Mooney, who currently serves as battalion chief and fire marshal, is not a candidate for the permanent position.

“Stephen cares about the future of the department and as a 20-year veteran, he understands our need of taking careful consideration for who serves in this position permanently,” said Barker. “His work ethic and attention to detail coupled with his fire experience will serve the department well during this transition time. We are grateful for his willingness to serve.”

Mooney joined Hattiesburg Fire Department in 1997 and has acquired more than 1200 hours of certifications and training. In 2016, he earned the rank of battalion chief and was appointed fire marshal. He currently oversees daily operations in the fire prevention division.

“The Hattiesburg Fire Department has an incredible legacy with firefighters who care about the citizens of the city,” said Mooney. “I’m both humbled and grateful to fill this role while Mayor Barker looks for a candidate who can effectively lead the department into the future.”

Members of Hattiesburg City Council will vote on this appointment at their next meeting on January 2.