Keith Watts never expected to eventually lead St. Petersburg Fire Rescue when he joined the department in 2018. He recently became the city’s first African American fire chief in 117 years.
Mayor Ken Welch announced Friday that Watts would replace former Chief James Large, who retired March 1 after 50 years with the department. Budget management and public relations skills – and a commitment to diversity and inclusivity – topped the list of desired qualifications. Read more at www.stpetecatalyst.com.