08/27/2026
NEWS RELEASE: Denison Fire Rescue Fire Chief Announces Retirement
DENISON, Texas – The City of Denison announces the upcoming retirement of Fire Chief Kenneth Jacks following five years of dedicated service to the Denison community and a distinguished career in the fire service.
"It has been the greatest honor to serve the outstanding city of Denison, alongside a dedicated team of professionals who exemplify courage, compassion, and service every day. I am sincerely thankful for the support, trust, and partnership you have shown me throughout my time as Chief," said Chief Jacks, "Denison Fire Rescue has a strong foundation and a remarkable culture, and I have full confidence in the men and women who will continue this mission forward and the standards we have set."
Chief Jacks joined the City of Denison as Fire Chief in 2021, bringing decades of fire service experience and leadership to Denison Fire Rescue.
During his five years with the City of Denison, Chief Jacks helped guide Denison Fire Rescue through a period of significant growth and investment. Under his leadership, the department secured an ISO 1 rating, successfully readopted EMS services under Denison Fire Rescue, expanded staffing, invested in new apparatus and equipment, secured funding through the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant, and much more. Chief Jacks also helped lead the planning and early design phases for Fire Station Four, which will primarily serve the growing area of northwest Denison.
Chief Jacks began his career with the Richardson Fire Department, where he served for 27 years and worked his way from Firefighter Paramedic to Training Chief. He later served as Fire Chief for the City of New Braunfels until 2019 before joining the City of Denison. Throughout his career, Chief Jacks has continued his professional development, earning a degree in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University along with several advanced certifications through the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. He is also certified as a Fire Service Chief Executive Officer through the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University.
“Chief Jacks has dedicated his career to serving and protecting others, and the City of Denison has greatly benefited from his experience and leadership,” said Mayor Robert Crawley. “His commitment to Denison Fire Rescue, the men and women of the department, and our community has made a lasting impact. On behalf of the City Council and the City of Denison, we thank Chief Jacks for his service and wish him the very best in his retirement.”
Chief Jacks will serve his last day with Denison Fire Rescue on October 23, 2026.
