The Chicago City Council has confirmed former Asst. Deputy Fire Commissioner Ray Orozco Jr. as Chicago’s new fire commissioner.

Orozco, the choice of Mayor Richard M. Daley to replace former Fire Commissioner Cortez Trotter as Trotter moves on to become the city’s first chief emergency officer, had his appointment confirmed May 17. During the confirmation hearing, Orozco pledged to embrace technology, improve diversity and continue Trotter’s progressive initiatives.

"To the small minority who may wish, hope or think things will return to the way things were many years ago," Orozco said, "be forewarned: I will have zero tolerance for any conduct or attitude that will negate the progress of this department. For those who think these are just words, understand that I will not hesitate to act quickly, decisively to assert the position I am taking."

As chief emergency officer, Trotter now will be responsible for long-range planning and coordination of the activities of the city’s police and fire departments, as well as Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications.