Rochester Mayor Malik Evans has appointed Deputy State Fire Administrator Stefano Napolitano as Rochester fire chief.

The move will take effect on Sept. 11, as long as Rochester City Council confirms the appointment.

“Chief Napolitano has dedicated his entire adult life to fire service and brings nearly 40 years of experience to continuing the improvement and excellence of the Rochester Fire Department,” said Mayor Evans. “His start date of Sept. 11, a day when our nation collectively honors the selfless heroism of firefighters and first responders, is a stark reminder of the magnitude of the role I have asked Chief Napolitano to fill. I look forward to working with him as we move closer to creating a safe, equitable and prosperous Rochester by inspiring hope and delivering opportunity for everyone.”

“I cannot wait to join the ranks of the RFD,” said Chief Napolitano. “The men and women of City Fire have set the highest standards for excellence and growth and I have much to glean from their experience and passion. I am humbled to share my knowledge and training to collectively reinforce the RFD’s recognition as one of the nation's premier fire service agencies.”

Napolitano will replace interim Chief Teresa Everett who has led the RFD since February.

Napolitano previously served as Batavia’s fire chief, emergency manager and flood plain manager from 2017 to 2021.