YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Mayor-elect Derrick McDowell announced a pair of groundbreaking appointments Friday afternoon, naming women to the positions of police chief and fire chief for the first time.
McDowell announced in a news release that he has named Sharon Cole, a detective sergeant in the police department’s internal affairs division, as the city’s new chief of police, and Courtney Kelley, a captain in the city’s fire department, as fire chief.
Cole comes into her position with 25 years of “dedicated law enforcement leadership,” and Kelley has 26 years with her department, according to the release.
Barry Finley submitted his resignation as fire chief last week.
“There is a wonderfully unique window of opportunity to make lasting changes in Youngstown, and now is that moment. Now is the time,” McDowell said in the release.
“Each of these leaders brings exceptional expertise and a deep dedication to Youngstown’s future,” he continued. “Their work will strengthen our city’s foundation and will work to improve the daily lives of our neighborhoods and residents.”
McDowell previously named Adam Buente as law director, Kyle Miasek as finance director and Jonathan Huff as chief of staff. Final interviews are underway for other key cabinet posts, including deputy director of public works, water commissioner, blight remediation and code enforcement, buildings and grounds, parks and recreation and coordinator of downtown events and special projects.