Anniston- The City of Anniston is proud to announce the appointment of Johnnie F. Phelps Jr. as the new Fire Chief for the Anniston Fire Department, effective August 13, 2025. City Manager Skyler Bass made the official appointment, citing Chief Phelps’ exceptional leadership, dedication, and long-standing service to the community.

Chief Phelps brings 24 years of distinguished service to the department, having advanced through every rank—from frontline firefighter to Training Chief, and most recently serving as Operations Chief. His career is marked by a steadfast commitment to excellence in public safety, innovation in training, and passionate dedication to community engagement.

A firm believer in lifelong learning, Chief Phelps holds an Associate of Science degree and is currently pursuing his Bachelor’s in Fire Administration. He also serves as an adjunct instructor at the Alabama Fire College, teaching more than a dozen certification courses to aspiring firefighters across the region.

During his tenure as Training Chief, Phelps launched a high school fire science program that now partners with nine local high schools, inspiring the next generation of first responders. He was also instrumental in developing and managing the Anniston Regional Training Center, which has become a destination for firefighter trainees from across the globe.

Chief Phelps’s leadership philosophy centers on community safety, advanced firefighter training, operational excellence, and innovation. He succeeds the late Fire Chief Jeff Waldrep, whose “Leave it better than you found it” approach remains a guiding principle for the department.

“Chief Phelps’s proven track record, commitment to professional growth, and deep community roots make him an outstanding choice to lead our fire department into the future,” said City Manager Bass.

Outside of his professional achievements, Chief Phelps is a devoted family man. He is married to Summer Phelps, a local Nurse Practitioner, and together they have four children and two grandchildren. In his personal time, he enjoys following his youngest son at track meets and cherishing moments with his grandchildren.

The City of Anniston welcomes Chief Phelps into his new role with great confidence in his vision and leadership.

– Link to Release: https://tinyurl.com/32dp3zpp