The City of Sanford has hired Matthew Arnold to serve as Sanford Fire Chief, filling the vacancy left by Chief Wayne Barber in January.
Arnold has 23 years of leadership experience with 14 of those in fire and emergency services. Most recently, he served as Battalion Chief for York Area United Fire & Rescue in York, Pennsylvania, a city of approximately 54,000 residents. At York, Arnold oversaw operational and emergency duties and served as the assistant accreditation manager, among other responsibilities, for the department of more than 60 employees and 5 stations.
The City of Sanford considered candidates’ records of community engagement, adaptability, and innovation during the selection process. At York, Chief Arnold designed and implemented an adult safety academy and a youth safety academy, coordinated the location of a new fire station, and pursued accreditation for his department.
Former Chief Wayne Barber was known for his push to modernize the Sanford Fire Department. Incoming Chief Arnold has a background in information technology and will continue to invest in data- and technology-driven solutions, strategic planning, and developing relationships that further the mission of a department.
“We are excited for Chief Matthew Arnold to join the Sanford Fire Department and look forward to his leadership and innovation as our city grows,” says City Manager Hal Hegwer. “I would also like to thank Battalion Chief Steve Seagroves for his dedicated and excellent service as Interim Fire Chief.”
Chief Arnold will begin work on Monday, October 3, 2022. He will have complete oversight of all fire operations.