KILLEEN, Texas — Killeen City Manger Kent Cagle announced his intent to appoint a new fire chief, pending official approval by the city council.
Cagle intends to appoint James Kubinski as the city's next fire chief.
The appointment is set to be discussed at a council workshop Dec. 8 and considered for confirmation at the council's Dec. 15 meeting. The city charter requires that the council approve department head appointments. If approved, Kubinski will step into the position on Feb. 1.
Kubinski has been in the fire service for 25 years, the past 20 with Naperville Fire Department in Illinois. His positions include firefighter/paramedic, lieutenant and, most recently, bureau chief. He has a bachelor's degree in management from Benedictine University and more than 30 certifications.
Following Fire Chief Brian Brank's retirement in July, the city hired Strategic Government Resources to conduct a nationwide search for a replacement. A total of 43 candidates applied and the applicants were narrowed down to four finalists. Finalist interviews were held late in November and Cagle then selected Kubinski.
