CA Department Names Third Fire Chief in Two Years

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Redlands has named Jim Topoleski, a 34-year veteran of the Fire Department, to be the new fire chief.

Topoleski is the third chief in two years. He has been with the department since 1986, and most recently served as a battalion chief. His promotion was effective on March 9.

A Facebook post from Redlands Professional Firefighters L-1354 says Topoleski has been an important part of the department’s successes.

“We as the Redlands Professional Firefighters are very excited for the community and our members to see someone who has been serving the community for his entire career be at the tip of the spear and continue to guide us as we strive to provide excellent customer service,” the post says in part.

Topoleski follows Nathan Cooke, who left in December for a deputy chief position at the Chino Valley Fire District, and before that Jeff Frazier, who retired in 2018. Rich Sessler filled in as interim fire chief while the city sought a permanent replacement.

At his first City Council meeting as chief on Tuesday, March 17, Topoleski will share a report about the city’s coronavirus preparations.

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