New Kent Charles City Chronicle

News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | March 29, 2024

Opett named Virginia Fire Chief of the Year

By Community Member | February 21, 2020 4:26 pm

New Kent Fire Chief Rick Opett has been selected as the recipient of the Governor’s Fire Services Award as the Virginia Fire Chief of the Year. Opett received the honor during a Feb. 19 ceremony at the Virginia Fire-Rescue conference in Virginia Beach.

During his tenure, Opett has improved New Kent Fire-Rescue services that including having the department staffed 24/7, decreased response time to calls by 15 minutes, hiring 40 additional full-time firefighters, and receiving $3 million in grants. He was also instrumental in the opening of the Talleysville Fire Station last year.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today, or even receiving this award, if it weren’t for the men and women of New Kent Fire-Rescue and our county leadership,” Opett said in a press release. “They’ve worked just as hard and with me to build this department to provide better customer service for our residents and visitors.”