New fire chief takes office in Ridgeland

RIDGELAND — The city has a new fire chief who aims to make the department more “aggressive and progressive” by investing in his firefighters.

Jonathan Posey, a Ridgeland native and veteran of the department, was sworn in as the new fire chief during a ceremony Wednesday morning at City Hall.

“My job is to serve the community and the guys at the same time,” Posey said, emphasizing his goal is to support his firefighters to better serve the public.

Posey, a 2004 graduate of Ridgeland High School, has been with the department since 2015. He has served as a firefighter, sergeant, lieutenant, and most recently as the department’s training officer. He also served in the Mississippi Army National Guard with the 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team.

“His years of hands-on experience and leadership have prepared him well for this next step,” the city said in a statement.

Posey succeeds Fire Chief Matt Bailey, who recently retired after a 37-year career in fire service. Bailey led the Ridgeland Fire Department for the past 24 years.

“Under his leadership, the department advanced in professionalism, training, and community involvement,” the city said of Bailey. “His legacy of mentorship and innovation leaves a lasting impact on Ridgeland and the broader fire service community.”