TYLER, Texas — Tyler Fire Marshal Paul Findley was appointed to become the next Smith County fire marshal during the county commissioners court meeting Wednesday morning.
Findley becomes the first permanent holder of the Smith County fire marshal position since Jay Brooks' resignation in October.
He will begin working for Smith County this Monday.
“I am excited about this new opportunity, and I look forward to seeking out avenues to connect with our community and to work alongside our public safety partners as we strive to make our county as safe and healthy as possible,” Findley said.
Smith County Judge Neal Franklin said the county received 15 applications for the job and the top three candidates were reviewed during Wednesday's commissioners court meeting executive session.
“Paul Findley, with his background and experience, professionalism and education, stood out above the rest of the candidates,” Franklin said. “We are excited for him to bring that to the Smith County Fire Marshal’s Office.”
Findley has worked for the City of Tyler for 25 years. The city of Tyler said Brandon Davis has been named interim office holder for Findley's previous position.
Chad Hogue has been serving as interim fire marshal for Smith County. Brooks said in September he took a job as a software developer in the private sector.
According to the city of Tyler website, Findley has over 25 years of experience in the fire service. He has certifications as a master firefighter, master fire inspector, master arson investigator and fire instructor with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection.
He is also licensed as a master peace officer with over 16 years in law enforcement. He has maintained his paramedic license since the mid-1990s, the city website stated.