Burbank City Manager Mary Alvord has announced the selection of retired Burbank Fire Department Battalion Chief Rick Mehling as the Interim Fire Chief for the City of Burbank.

He will begin a one year term on July 1, 2004. He will replace current Chief Mike Davis who is retiring on July 1st after 35 years of service, the last 14 as Fire Chief.

"I’m pleased that Rick has agreed to come out of retirement and step into this role. I know that it will be challenging to change the leadership in a department where retiring Chief Mike Davis has been at the helm for more than 14 years. During this period of transition, we want to make sure we spend the right amount of time and effort to position the department for new leadership. Rick has a proven track record and is the right person for this job. I very much look forward to working with him," said Alvord.

Mehling retired in 2000 after almost 34 years with the Burbank Fire Department. From 1997-2000 he served as Administrative Battalion Chief Chief (Assistant Chief). In 2003 he filled in when the City’s Disaster Coordinator was called to active duty in the Coast Guard.

"I am confident he will lead this department well until a suitable and qualified replacement can be found," said retiring Fire Chief Davis, citing "Rick’s positive influence on this department over the many years he served."

Since joining the Burbank Fire Department in 1966, Mehling has served as firefighter, fire engineer, paramedic, and battalion chief. He received Firefighter of the Year Award in 1983 from the Verdugo Hills Exchange Club and has been active in many professional associations involving emergency medical services and paramedics.

As Interim Fire Chief, Mehling’s salary will be in the range of $9,902 to $12,031 per month.

"I am honored by the support and confidence expressed to me by the City Manager’s office and the members of the Fire Department. I am proud to serve and look forward to the challenges of leading one of the most highly esteemed fire departments in California. The citizens of Burbank can continue to rely on the same superior emergency services as provided under the leadership of retiring Fire Chief Mike Davis," said Mehling.