Johnson served as Lebanon Fire Division chief from November 2016 through early 2023, when he left to become MVFD battalion chief.
Barnett had served as chief since February 2022 after a 23-year career with the city of Trotwood. However, the resolution MVFD’s Board of Trustees approved Thursday said Barnett “expressed a desire to transition to the role of Assistant Chief in order to better align his skills and expertise with the evolving needs of the Fire District.”
Johnson’s expertise and dedication to public safety make him “the ideal candidate to continue the legacy of excellence established by the fire district,” according to John Stalder, chairperson of the Board of Trustees for MVFD.
Johnson will be paid $123,000 annually . MVFD said he brings “34 years of extensive experience and a proven track record of leadership in the fire service industry.”
His new role will be centered on leading the district “with a steadfast commitment to excellence in emergency response, community engagement, and organizational development.”
“His vision and strategic approach will guide the Fire District into its next chapter of growth and service to the community,” MVFD said in the release.
Miami Valley Fire District has 79 employees and provides service to Miamisburg and Miami Twp. (combined population: 52,000) from five fire stations. For 2023, it fielded 10,615 calls for service. Of those, 7,620 were EMS calls, while 2,995 were fire-related calls.
Johnson started his service with the Lebanon Division of Fire in 2007, and was promoted from lieutenant to captain in 2013, city officials there previously said. He was a team leader on the Warren County Technical Rescue Team and a tactical medic on the Warren County Tactical Response Unit.
Johnson served in the U.S. Marine Corps and earned a bachelor of science degree in business administration from The Ohio State University and multiple certifications in fire and emergency rescue.
Johnson said he is “deeply appreciative” to be chosen as the new fire chief. “I am committed to serving our community with dedication, integrity, and compassion,” he said in a release.
MVFD said in a release that Barnett’s 2-year tenure as fire chief has been marked by “significant achievements and progressive growth.”
Barnett said he is honored to have served as Fire Chief of the Miami Valley Fire District and confident that under Johnson’s leadership, “the fire district will continue to thrive and uphold its commitment to serving the community with professionalism and dedication.”
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