HOUSTON – Houston Fire Department She made history by appointing Deputy Chief Marion Spann as Fire Marshal, making her the first Black woman to hold such a critical position.

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Mayor John Whitmire He congratulated him by saying that it matches his determination to represent his new position.

“Chief Spann’s appointment as the City of Houston’s first Black female fire chief demonstrates my commitment to diversity and sends a strong message to all Houstonians that we have certainly recognized leadership and experience under my administration,” he said in a news release.

As Fire Marshal, Spann will lead the Arson Bureau and Life Safety Bureau. Their responsibilities will include fire investigations, prevention efforts, inspections and code enforcement.

“When Mayor John Whitmire appointed me as Fire Chief, he told me to make sure we had the right people in the right place to protect citizens and care for our firefighters,” the Fire Chief said. Thomas Munoz added. Chief Spann has the experience and qualifications to do the job. “His time as superintendent, his leadership and team development will serve this city well.”

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HFD says as Fire Marshal, Spann will lead the Arson Bureau and Life Safety Bureau. Their responsibilities will include fire investigations, prevention efforts, inspections and code enforcement.

This isn’t the first time Spann has made history! In 2000, she broke barriers by becoming the first Black woman to serve as an Engineer Operator.

Over the years, Spann held several key positions, including Chief Inspection Officer, where he enforced fire prevention laws and regulations, HFD said. He also holds a Master Fire Inspector certification, which brings deep expertise to his new role as Fire Marshal.

Mayor John Whitmire congratulated him on his new position, saying it matched his commitment to representation.

“Chief Spann’s appointment as the City of Houston’s first Black female fire chief demonstrates my commitment to diversity and sends a strong message to all Houstonians that we certainly appreciate the leadership and experience under my administration,” he said.