Chief James Callahan Announces Retirement, Recommends Deputy Chief Steve Hudson as Successor

Chief James Callahan Announces Retirement, Recommends Deputy Chief Steve Hudson as Successor

MONROE COUNTY, FL – Monroe County Fire Rescue Fire Chief James “Jim” Callahan announced his retirement during the Board of County Commissioners meeting on Wednesday. He has been with Monroe County Fire Rescue for 15 years and in career fire service for 51 years. His last day will be May 19, 2021. In addition to Monroe County, he has served the City of St. Petersburg and Hillsborough County. Callahan implemented the “Callahan Plan” when he was hired in Monroe County, which focused on improving infrastructure and the level of service to the citizens and visitors of the Florida Keys. A few accomplishments included overseeing the building and refurbishing of five Monroe County fire stations, adding fire rescue staffing, and increasing Trauma Star operations.

“I am proud of what Monroe County Fire Rescue has accomplished the past 15 years,” said Callahan. “I am proud to recommend Deputy Chief Hudson for the position of fire chief to continue the effort where I leave off.”

Deputy Fire Chief Steve Hudson brings 38 years of career fire service experience and joined Monroe County Fire Rescue in 2012. He has a master’s degree in disaster preparedness and executive fire leadership. He is also a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program and Leadership Monroe Class XXVII.

“It has been an honor to work and develop under Chief Callahan for the past eight years,” said Hudson. “His experience and wisdom have helped me prepare to be his successor and for that I’m extremely grateful. I wish him and Cindy the very best in their retirement.”

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