(Little Rock, AR – November 13, 2008) City Manager Bruce T. Moore issued the following statement regarding the announcement in Austin, Texas, that Little Rock Fire Chief Rhoda Mae Kerr will be the new Fire Chief for that City.

“The Mayor and City Board of Directors join me in expressing our appreciation to Fire Chief Rhoda Mae Kerr for her service to the City of Little Rock. Under her leadership the Fire Department has risen to new levels in fire prevention education, training, and community involvement.

“Chief Kerr played a key role in the implementation of the 2004 Bond Program which provided for the renovation of each Little Rock Fire Station, upgrading communication equipment, and completion of the new Fire Training Academy.

“Because of Chief Kerr's outstanding abilities and skills, it is no surprise that the City of Austin, Texas, would select her to be the next Fire Chief. As she enters this next step in her career, we wish her much continued success. Though she will be leaving the City of Little Rock, she will always be part of the Little Rock City Hall family.

“As the City prepares for this transition, there will be announcements in the coming weeks about interim leadership in the department and the search for the next Little Rock Fire Chief.”

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