A veteran firefighter whose service with the Riverside Fire Department spans a quarter century will take over as chief starting next week.
Deputy Fire Chief Steve McKinster was selected by City Manager Mike Futrell to fill the vacancy being left by the retirement of Chief Michael Moore, who will be officially leaving the department this week after a decade at the helm.
“Steve McKinster is the right combination of leadership, management expertise and professionalism to lead RFD moving forward,” Futrell said. “His commitment to Riverside, his integrity and his understanding of this community’s needs set him apart as our department’s next chief.”
McKinster, whose first day in the top slot will be Oct. 10, has been with the department since 1999. He was one of 37 candidates vetted during a nationwide recruitment campaign lasting three months, according to city officials.
“I have a clear vision for keeping us focused on our daily mission of service while also looking forward to future opportunities for growth,” McKinster said. “Every action I take is driven by a heartfelt desire to make a positive impact and ensure the safety and well-being of both our department members and the community.”
He has been deputy chief of administration for two years, overseeing budgetary matters, acquisitions, contracts and labor relations. Prior to that role, he was head of the Urban Search & Rescue Division and also served as a battalion chief, training captain, engineer and paramedic.
McKinster was a firefighter with another agency for four years prior to joining RFD.
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