Near Two Harbors, 34 structures burned and Highway 61 closed; in Crow Wing County, a 1,600-acre fire sparked evacuations

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Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey announced Wednesday that he’s selected Reginald Freeman to be the city’s next fire chief. 

Freeman holds a PhD in emergency and protective services and has previously led fire departments in Oakland, California, and Hartford, Connecticut. 

In his first public appearance as the official fire chief nominee, Freeman talked about why he wants to lead the Minneapolis Fire Department. 

"Minneapolis is a nationally recognized city and the opportunity to serve as its next fire chief is both professionally meaningful and personally motivating for me,” he said.  

Frey touted Freeman’s decades of experience and his leadership approach. 

“But what truly sets Reggie Freeman apart is his commitment to people, his mentoring of firefighters, his understanding of the very difficult job that they do day in, day out, and making sure that those incredible public servants are able to get home safely to their families,” he said. 

The nomination will head to the City Council for approval.  Frey said he expects Freeman’s nomination will receive a public hearing in July.  If approved, Freeman will replace former chief 

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Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has nominated Reginald Freeman, a veteran fire leader from Oakland and Hartford, to be the city’s next fire chief, pending City Council approval.

A fire fighter in an official uniform stands next to a U.S. flag.

Courtesy of City of Minneapolis

A fire fighter in an official uniform stands next to a fire truck.

Mayor Frey names his choice to lead the Minneapolis Fire Department

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