Tracy Jarman has been named the first woman to lead San Diego's fire department, placing her name on the lengthening list of women heading fire agencies nationwide. Jarman, a 22-year veteran of the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, was the unanimous choice of the selection committee, although her appointment is still subject to City Council approval. She had been serving as interim chief since Chief Jeff Bowman retired in early June.

Jarman takes the reins of a department still struggling with the aftermath of the catastrophic October 2003 Cedar wildland fire. That fire burned 422 square miles, killed 15 people and destroyed more than 2,400 homes.

Many have criticized San Diego leadership for failing to heed repeated warnings from experts that the fire department lacks adequate resources to manage wildfires. Former Chief Bowman cited continued underfunding of wildfire prevention and response efforts as a factor motivating his retirement as chief. Jarman has said she will develop a priority-based plan to address financial shortcomings.