Frazier replaced as fire chief
Also, Eli Guest announces run for county council; Dodd files candidacy
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Mayor Tyler Moore announced his intention to appoint Kokomo native and former Kokomo Fire Department (KFD) Captain Paul Edwards as the new Kokomo fire chief. Deputy Chief Steve Stackhouse will serve as interim chief until Edwards is sworn into office later this month.
“Public safety is my top priority,” Moore said. “I am confident that Paul is the right person to lead the department. He demonstrated leadership within the Kokomo Fire Department and his skills have been highly sought after by the private sector when he retired. We are lucky to have him back.”
Edwards was born and raised in Kokomo. He graduated from Taylor High School in 1984 and received his Bachelor of Science degree from Ball State University and Master of Science from Indiana Wesleyan University.
He joined KFD in 1996 and originally retired from the department in 2018. He achieved certifications as a Confined Space Rescue Technician, Hazardous Materials Technician and Emergency Medical Technician.
He has served as Public Safety Program Chair at Ivy Tech Community College, Security Chief at General Motors Components Holdings, Carver Community Center and Howard County Local Emergency Planning Committee board of directors.
“It is an incredible privilege and honor to return home to the Kokomo Fire Department where I first started my career 28 years ago as a young, probationary firefighter,” said Paul Edwards. “I am excited to lead the women and men of our department into the future by serving with Mayor Moore to develop the department and respond to the public safety needs of our growing community.”
Edwards replaces Chris Frazier who returns to the rank of captain with the Kokomo Fire Department. No reason was given by the mayor for the change in leadership. Frazier was appointed to the rank of chief when Moore took office in 2020. He served as president of Firefighters Local #396 immediately preceding the appointment.
Guest files for county council
Surrounded by the supportive residents of Howard County, Democrat Eli Guest officially declared his candidacy for the 2024 Howard County Council At Large on Jan. 17.
At the age of 19, Eli hopes to bring a fresh perspective and unwavering determination to address the challenges facing our community. Eli, currently an active student at Indiana University Kokomo, has a unique background in commercial real estate and staffing sales.
“This makes me him the ideal candidate to elevate the Howard County Council to new heights,” Guest said in a prepared statement. “(My) experience in these fields equips (me) with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate complex issues and ensure effective representation for the residents of Howard County.”
As a young father to his son, Theodore, Eli said he understands the importance of building a community that provides a secure and prosperous future for its residents. His focus on key initiatives he believes will align with the core well-being of Howard County:
Housing - Eli is committed to advocating for policies that promote affordable housing initiatives, ensuring that every resident in Howard County has access to secure and affordable housing.
Safe Transportation - Recognizing the importance of safe and efficient transportation, Eli will work towards comprehensive plans to enhance the transportation infrastructure, making roads safer and promoting sustainable modes of transportation.
Environmental Health - Eli acknowledges the responsibility of preserving our environment and is dedicated to promoting policies that safeguard natural resources, combat climate change, and ensure a healthy environment for generations to come.
Guest invites the residents of Howard County to join him on this transformative journey.
“With a fresh perspective, unbridled enthusiasm, and a genuine commitment to positive impact, (I) envision a Howard County that thrives in inclusivity, opportunity, and prosperity,” said Guest. "I understand the challenges that come with youth, but together, we can build a Howard County that we are all proud to call home. Let's make 2024 a year of positive change for our beloved community."
For more information and to support Eli Guest's campaign, please visit eli4countycouncil.com.
Dodd makes it official
Having previously announced his intent to run for re-election to the Howard County Board of Commissioners, Jack Dodd filed his candidacy paperwork on Jan. 16.
Dodd first entered local government as the human resources director for the City of Kokomo under Mayor Matt McKillip, from 2004-2007. After several years living and working in Yuma, Ariz., Dodd returned to his home county and became active in the local Republican Party. Dodd first won election in 2020 as a county commissioner, representing the middle third of Howard County, including all of Kokomo, in the commissioners’ 2nd District.