After more than four decades of service to the City of Cleveland, longtime Fire Chief Ricky Pruitt is stepping down.
Cleveland Mayor Josh Turner announced Pruitt’s resignation during the city council meeting Monday night, following an executive session. Acting on a motion by Councilman Jeremy McClure, the council voted to accept Pruitt’s resignation and honor him with the title of Fire Chief Emeritus.
End of an era
Pruitt’s resignation marks the end of an era for the Cleveland Fire Department. He began serving as fire chief in 1992 and has spent a total of 42 and a half years leading and protecting the community.
Before taking the department’s top job, he served as Assistant Chief for 10 years.
His leadership has shaped generations of firefighters in Cleveland and set a standard of that will resonate for years to come.
“Chief Pruitt will always be remembered not just for the length of his service, but for the profound impact he has made on our department and our community,” said Mayor Turner, reading from a prepared statement.
Known for his steady leadership and unwavering commitment to public safety, Pruitt leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, mentorship, and innovation, said Turner. Under Chief Pruitt’s direction, the Cleveland Fire Department expanded its full-time staff, added a new ladder truck, and is nearing completion of a new four-bay fire station.
“The firefighters under his command hold him in the highest regard, not just for his decades of tireless service, but for the way he has always led with compassion, humility, and an unwavering commitment to others,” the mayor said. “There is no exaggeration to say that he is beloved by those who have had the honor of serving alongside him.”
The city expressed its “deepest gratitude” to Chief Pruitt and extended best wishes to him and his family.
“His leadership has shaped generations of firefighters in Cleveland and set a standard that will resonate for years to come,” Turner said.
Chief Pruitt’s resignation is effective July 31.
