PRESS RELEASE
Chief Dennis L. Rubin Stepping Down as Fire Chief
For the Kansas City, Kansas Fire Department
KANSAS CITY, KS - Kansas City, Kansas Fire Department (KCKFD) Chief Dennis L. Rubin will be leaving his position after completing three and a half years of dedicated service. His day as Chief will be October 31, 2026.
Since assuming the position in June 2023, Chief Rubin has helped move the KCKFD forward through changes that directly support the department and the residents of Kansas City, Kansas. Under his leadership, the department has made improvements to its emergency response fleet, including the addition and replacement of fire engines, ladder trucks and ambulances, strengthened the community paramedic program, enacted the Whole Blood Program, and reduced over $5 million in Unified Government expenses related to overtime. In 2025, Chief Rubin testified in front of Congress on behalf of the Unified Government and Fire Departments across the country in opposition to fire apparatus manufacture monopolies.
“On behalf of the Unified Government, I want to thank Chief Rubin for his service and commitment,” said Interim County Administrator Alan Howze. “His dedication to the department and the greater good of the fire service has been greatly appreciated. We wish him all the best in his next chapter.”
Chief has worked alongside firefighters, emergency responders, local officials, and community members to support the safety and well-being of the community. During Chief Rubin’s tenure, the department has expanded KCKFD training programs, increased community engagement and public education, implemented strategic initiatives to cut costs, and worked to strengthen community organization partnerships.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to be the 19th Fire Chief for Kansas City, Kansas,” said Chief Rubin. “I have enjoyed my time leading a great Fire Department. I am certain that KCKFD will continue to do great and wonderful work for the Community.”
The UG will soon announce plans for interim leadership along with a national search process for selecting the department’s next fire chief.
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