SCC Item 1. Hiring of Fire Chief
Request for
City Council Action
DEPARTMENT INFORMATION
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT REQUESTOR: MEETING DATE:
Human Resources Assistant City Administrator/Human Resources Hille April 20, 2026
PRESENTER(s) REVIEWED BY: ITEM #:
Human Resources City Administrator/Finance Director Flaherty 1 – Hiring Approval
STRATEGIC VISION
MEETS: THE CITY OF OTSEGO:
Is a strong organization that is committed to leading the community through innovative communication.
Has proactively expanded infrastructure to responsibly provide core services.
X Is committed to delivery of quality emergency service responsive to community needs and expectations in a
cost-effective manner.
X Is a social community with diverse housing, service options, and employment opportunities.
Is a distinctive, connected community known for its beauty and natural surroundings.
AGENDA ITEM DETAILS
RECOMMENDATION:
City staff recommends the City Council approve the hiring for the Fire Chief position.
ARE YOU SEEKING APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT? IS A PUBLIC HEARING REQUIRED?
No No
BACKGROUND/JUSTIFICATION:
The City conducted a recruitment process for the Fire Chief position in the spring of 2026. There were 18 applications
received, of which 8 applicants received an initial interview conducted by the City Administrator, Assistant City
Administrator, and Interim Fire Chief Scott. The second round of interviews included 5 applicants, conducted by the City
Administrator, Assistant City Administrator, Interim Fire Chief Scott, Chief Bullen (Albertville), Chief Dickinson (Elk River),
Chief Farrens (Rogers), and the Chair of the Otsego Public Safety Commission.
The City Council conducted interviews of two finalists on March 25, 2026. After the interviews were complete, the
majority of the City Council authorized City staff to offer the position to James McCoy. The City and Mr. McCoy have
come to agreement on compensation and benefits. Mr. McCoy has successfully completed the pre-employment
screening requirements of the position, which included psychological evaluation, medical evaluation, and a background
check.
City Staff are recommending the City Council approve the hiring of James McCoy for the position of Fire Chief. Pending
approval by the City Council, Mr. McCoy will provide formal notice to his current employer and anticipates starting
employment with the City on May 4, 2026. City staff propose that Chief McCoy have an oath of office ceremony at a
regular City Council meeting in May.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
• None
POSSIBLE MOTION
PLEASE WORD MOTION AS YOU WOULD LIKE IT TO APPEAR IN THE MINUTES:
Motion to approve the hiring of James McCoy for the position of Fire Chief at Grade 16, Step 7; and PTO accruals at
year 6.
BUDGET INFORMATION
FUNDING: BUDGETED:
Fund 101 – General – Fire Protection (42200)
Yes