Sandoval County Names Interim Fire Chief
Sandoval County, NM
July 25, 2012

Maxon will head the department until county officials can conduct a search for a permanent fire chief. “We will take time to advertise the position, and we also will talk with members of the department’s current command staff,” Rios said. “We don’t want to rush into making a decision, particularly given the circumstances under which the position came open.”

Rios also said he’s confident that Maxon is the right person to lead the department at this critical time. “Looking at his qualifications, experience, his demeanor—and his relationship with the department’s staff—I have no doubts about James Maxon’s ability to continue moving the department in the positive direction that Chief Tibbetts had established,” Rios said.

Maxon has more than 20 years of fire service experience. He joined the Sandoval County Fire Department in January 2006, assuming the role of deputy chief and county fire marshal. Prior to that, Maxon was a senior inspector, investigator, and instructor with the New Mexico State Fire Marshal’s Office. He also was instrumental in the founding of the Fire Science Technology Program at Santa Fe Community College.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to continue fulfilling the vision that Chief Tibbetts had for this department,” Maxon said. “I think I can speak for every member of the department in saying that we look forward to continuing to serve the community in ways that would make him proud.