Even though Jay Wittwer doesn't officially begin his job as Tukwila fire chief until Sept. 15, he already feels right at home.
The city selected Wittwer, a Nevada native, after a nationwide search that netted 18 applications. Wittwer was one of six applicants who interviewed for the position last month. The City Council unanimously confirmed his appointment on Aug. 1.
Wittwer replaces Chris Flores, who served as the interim fire chief for several years while the city considered joining the Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority. Wittwer will be paid $134,148 a year.
"He is going to be a great addition to the city of Tukwila," Councilman Thomas McLeod said during the Aug. 1 council meeting.
Wittwer, who spent his nearly 30-year fire service career with the city of North Las Vegas, most recently as a battalion chief, looks forward to relocating to the Pacific Northwest.
"It is going to be quiet a difference for us, but we are excited about the change," he said.