Council names city’s fire marshal as new Athens Fire and Rescue chief

James Hand

ATHENS-Athens Fire and Rescue’s new fire chief will be an employee who started his career 21 years ago as an Athens firefighter.

At its Monday meeting, the Athens City Council named James Hand as chief effective October 9, the first pay period in that month.

During his career with AFR, Hand has served as firefighter, driver, inspector, interim chief and fire marshal.

“I’m excited to serve this community and work with a great department,” Hand said. “I’ll rely on my experience – especially serving as interim chief a couple of years ago – as I transition into this role.”

By state law, the Athens City Council makes the decision on who will serve in the chief position.