Jack K. McElfish has been named the first fire chief of the newly incorporated city of Sandy Springs, Ga. The state’s newest — and seventh largest — city borders Atlanta and has a population of 85,000.

McElfish holds a master's degree in public administration and in fire science. In addition, he was one of the first 15 in the country to receive the Chief Fire Officer designation.

First appointed as a fire chief in 1981, McElfish has served as fire chief in Richmond, Va.; Wallingford, Conn.; Clayton County, Ga; and Gwinnett County, Ga. Earlier in his career, McElfish was public affairs director and fire training coordinator in Montgomery County, Penn., and a station commander in Montgomery County, Md.

In appointing McElfish, Sandy Springs City Manager John McDonough commented on breadth of experience McElfish brings to the city:

"Jack McElfish is an innovator with a proven history of providing outstanding fire and life safety services to the communities he has served. We are pleased to have such a capable leader to help us create a fire department for Sandy Springs."

The chief's work experience includes comprehensive and varied fire service and local government management. He has a successful management record of directing a metropolitan and large countywide fire department; developing and implementing a complete countywide fire and rescue training program that was practical, functional and effective; and in directing a progressive combination career/volunteer fire department.