Killeen’s fire chief, James Kubinski, was chosen to lead Grand Prairie Fire Department after a nationwide search for a new chief.
KILLEEN, Texas — The City of Grand Prarie has selected Killeen Fire Chief James Kubinski as the next fire chief, according to city officials.
Kubinski, who has been a firefighter for almost 30 years, was chosen after a nationwide search that drew 64 applicants and produced three finalists. The City of Grand Prairie invited city employees, business representatives and residents to meet the finalists at a community meet-and-greet as part of the process.
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Kubinski is expected to start in January, pending Grand Prairie City Council approval. He will succeed Chief Robert Fite, who is preparing to retire after nearly 40 years in the fire service, including 14 years leading the department.
City Manager Bill Hills, for the city of Grand Prarie, said, “Selecting our next fire chief has been one of the most important tasks of my career,” said City Manager Bill Hills. “We searched extensively for the most qualified person to lead our well-established department. I am confident that Kubinski will continue to build on this strong foundation and lead the more than 200 Grand Prairie Fire Department men and women who proudly serve and protect our community.”
Kubinski had been overseeing the emergency operation, management and prepardness, community risk reduction, and strategic and capital planning for the Killeen Fire Department. Under his leadership, KFD maintained its ISO Class 1 rating and American Heart Association Gold Plus recogniting. Kubinski also increased the staffing for his department, expanded emergency response resources and launched new lifesaving programs.
Statement from Chief Kubinski:
“This is an amazing opportunity to lead the men and women of the Grand Prairie Fire Department. I am inheriting an outstanding team created by previous leaders who have moved Grand Prairie forward. I have big shoes to fill, but I’m confident I can become part of the legacy that provides great service focused on the citizens of this great city and the men and women of this department.”
He shared the following statement regarding his departure from Killeen:
“Serving the City of Killeen and working alongside the men and women of the Killeen Fire Department has been an important and meaningful part of my professional journey. I will always be proud of what we have accomplished together and grateful for the opportunity to have served alongside such a dedicated team. It has been a privilege to be part of this team, and I will always value the experiences and memories we have shared.”