Chief Paxton is the 23rd chief in the 157 year history of the Columbus Division of Fire. Chief Paxton states, “Being part of the long and distinguished history of the Division of Fire is a great honor. I thank Mayor Michael B. Coleman and Safety Director Mitchell J. Brown for the trust that they have placed in me to lead our organization through the difficult financial times that lie ahead. I am committed to the themes of innovation and efficiency as the foundation of improved service at a lesser cost for the citizens of the City of Columbus.”