Chief Downs came to Pasadena on April 5, 2004, becoming the City’s 13th Fire Chief. He began his public safety career with the Fresno Police Department in 1974, starting off as a Police Cadet and later promoting to Police Officer. In 1979, Chief Downs was hired by the Fresno Fire Department as a Firefighter. He worked his way through the ranks, ultimately being appointed as Fresno’s Interim Fire Chief in 1994. That same year, Chief Downs was selected to be Ventura City’s Fire Chief, where he remained until coming to Pasadena in 2004.
In Pasadena, Chief Downs manages a $40.3 million dollar budget, provides leadership to 187 employees, and oversees eight fire stations, as well as Fire Department Headquarters. Key projects include: development and administration of the Fire Department’s 2005 – 2010 Strategic Plan, enhancing disaster preparedness for Pasadena community members, enhancing emergency medical services, and relocating the headquarters office from leased space to a location that is more “customer friendly.”
Chief Downs holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Business and Management from Azusa Pacific University, and an Associate in Science Degree in Fire Science from Fresno City College.
Some of Chief Downs’ affiliations include:
League of California Cities: Current Board Member; 2006 Board Nominating Committee Member; Past President, Fire Chiefs’ Department (2001 and 2002 Years); Public Safety Policy Committee, Past Member
California Fire Chiefs’ Association: Member; Past Board Member (Seat Designated for League Chiefs’ President)
California Firefighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee (CFFJAC): Board Member
LA Area Fire Chiefs: Past President
International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC): Member
Rotary International – Pasadena Club: Member
American Red Cross, San Gabriel Pomona Valley Chapter: Board Vice-Chair; Public Affairs Committee Chair; Past Chapter CEO Search Committee Member