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LTC 223-2024 Appointment of Miami Beach Fire ChiefMIAMI BEACH OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER LTC# LETTER TO COMMISSION TO: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: Honorable Mayor Steven Meiner and Members of the City Commission Rickelle Williams, Interim City Manager cR.Lt} June 4, 2024 Appointment of Miami Beach Fire Chief The purpose of this Letter to Commission (L TC) is to inform you that following more than 10 years with the Miami Beach Fire Department and over 42 years in the fire service, Virgil Fernandez is stepping down from his role as Fire Chief effective July 1, 2024. Chief Fernandez has served Miami Beach residents, businesses, and visitors with distinction and integrity while promoting a culture of service excellence within the Fire Department. His commitment, leadership and professionalism have guided the dedicated men and women of the Fire Department through many challenging circumstances including the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous hurricanes (locally and throughout Florida), and the Champlain Towers South building collapse. Notwithstanding the various accolades the Department has garnered during Chief Fernandez's tenure, his most impactful accomplishment has been to cultivate a solid leadership team and develop an internal succession plan to ensure the continued success and continuity of the Department. Public safety is central to the management and operations of the City. As such, the selection of a Fire Chief is not a decision I take lightly. The Miami Beach Fire Department is privileged to have several exceptional and qualified command staff members with a passion for service. In anticipation of Chief Fernandez's retirement, and as part of my duty as your Interim City Manager, I have carefully evaluated the operational functions and staffing composition of the Department and met individually with each member of the command staff to identify opportunities and discuss the vision for the future. What came as no surprise to me during these discussions was the undeniable, unequivocal, and unanimous support for Deputy Fire Chief Digna Abello to become our next Fire Chief. The sign of a true leader is not only evidenced by a list of credentials and accomplishments or the length of time in a role, but more importantly, by their ability to inspire, mentor and set a high standard. Chief Abello exemplifies all of these qualities, rising through the ranks during her over 19 years of service with the Miami Beach Fire Department. She began her tenure as a Firefighter and quickly distinguished herself as a natural leader. Her skills, competence, and willingness to sacrifice and contribute propelled her, first to the rank of Lieutenant with a focus on recruitment and administration. She later excelled as Division Chief of Support Services, Division Chief of Training, and Division Chief of Rescue, three (3) major divisions within the Department. Chief Abello has served in her current role as Deputy Chief of Administration since 2020 and has been at the forefront of all significant Department matters alongside Chief Fernandez. Her tenacity and tremendous experience as Division Chief and Deputy Chief have been key to the growth and stability of the Department. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chief Abello directed the Department's comprehensive response strategy, including the development of standard operating procedures and collaboration with health departments. She successfully established a vaccination program that inoculated over 13,000 vulnerable residents, ensuring community wellbeing and 1 223-2024 safety. Chief Abello also spearheaded two (2) rigorous accreditation cycles consecutively yielding the prestigious Insurance Services Office {ISO) Class 1 rating. Under her direct supervision as Deputy Chief of Administration, Chief Abello has provided leadership over the Public Safety Communications Unit, one of only 13 in the world to hold triple accreditation from the International Academy of Emergency Dispatchers. Chief Abello is well respected by her colleagues, residents, and other community stakeholders. In addition to her years of experience, Chief Abella earned a bachelor's degree in emergency management from Barry University. She holds numerous certifications, including certified Fire Inspector, Fire Officer, Fire Instructor, National Fire Academy Leadership Certification, Incident Command System Certification, and Accreditation Manager from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). Chief Abello and I, along with our senior leadership team, have discussed opportunities to enhance operations, current and upcoming priorities, and a strategy for strengthening the Department during the transition period and beyond. In consideration of the foregoing, and with the consent of the Mayor and City Commission on June 26, 2024, it is my honor to proudly announce the appointment of Chief Digna Abello as the first woman named Fire Chief in Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County history. This appointment will become effective July 1, 2024 and to ensure a smooth transition, I have asked Chief Fernandez to serve as a Special Advisor to the new Chief through September 1, 2024, his retirement date. Please join me in congratulating Chief Digna Abello and wishing Chief Fernandez well. CC: Ricardo J. Dopico, City Attorney Rafael E. Granado, City Clerk Joe M. Centorino, Inspector General Executive Staff Department Directors 2 Digna Abello Miami, Fl 33175 Phone 305-367-7652 E-mail dabello@miamibeachfl.gov Professional Summary Accomplished fire service professional with over 19 years of experience in command-level operations and administrative roles. Currently serving as Deputy Fire Chief of Administration, overseeing fire rescue and support staff while managing a $100 million budget. Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, budget management, emergency response, and community safety initiatives. Led significant projects during the COVID-19 pandemic and maintained high service standards through rigorous accreditation cycles. Committed to leveraging data- driven management and innovative solutions to enhance public safety and departmental efficiency. Highlights Of Major Accomplishments • COVID-19 Response Leadership: Directed the department's comprehensive COVID-19 response strategy, including the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and collaboration with health departments. Successfully established a vaccination center that inoculated over 13,000 vulnerable residents, including Holocaust survivors, ensuring community safety and health. • Operational Excellence: Spearheaded two rigorous accreditation cycles, significantly improving operational efficiency and compliance with the highest Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) and Insurance Service Office (ISO) standards. These efforts resulted in enhanced fire and emergency services delivery, reinforcing the department's commitment to excellence. • Pioneering Leadership: Achieved a historic milestone as the first female firefighter promoted to division chief, leading the Training and Support Services Division. Demonstrated exemplary leadership and innovation in training, support services, and operational management. • Public Safety Initiatives: Designed and implemented impactful public safety programs, effectively managing response efforts for regional emergencies, including three major hurricanes. Strengthened community resilience through proactive engagement and comprehensive emergency preparedness. Digna Abella Miami, Fl 33175 Phone 305-367-7652 E-ma il dabello@miamibeachfl.gov Professional Experience Deputy Fire Chief Miami Beach Fire Department, December 2020 - Present • Manage operations with a $100 million annual budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and optimal resource allocation. • Directed budget and grant management activities, securing over $1 million in FEMA and state reimbursements. • Fostered strong interdepartmental and community relations, ensuring effective collaboration and communication. • Developed strategic plans and coordinated the deployments of Region 7 South Fire assets in response to several hurricanes and Surfside Collapse. • Serves as the primary point of accountability for the Fire Department Support Services Division, Fire prevention, Ocean Rescue, and Public Safety Communications Division with city departments and outside agencies. • Directs the MBFD CFPSE Accreditation Program, Directs the MBFD Insurance Services Office (ISO) Program, Directs the MBFD Strategic Planning Program Division Chief of Rescue Miami Beach Fire Department, 2018- 2020 • Led COVID-19 vaccine mobile operations and point of distribution sites, focusing on high-risk community members. • Led the Training and EMS Division, formulating and enforcing training programs that align with national and state EMS certifications and fire suppression guidelines. • Provided training and recertification to EMTs and paramedics. • Deployed new Patient Care Report Writing System/Quality Assurance (ESO) for enhanced decision-making. • Ensures proper and consistent review of patient care reports for proper diagnosis and treatment; identification of clinical trends and/or performance trends; and development and administration of continuing education. • Managed service fees for EMS contractual agreements to maintain service standards. Digna Abello Miami, Fl 33175 Phone 305-367-7652 E-mail dabello@miamibeachfl.gov Division Chief of Training Miami Beach Fire Department, September 2014 -April 2020 • Launched Firefighter Cancer Initiative (F.C.I.). Coordinated with University of Miami to have MBFD participate in cancer studies. • Steered design and implementation of training for the Jhat program for 6-day Super Bowl LIV NFL • Deployed 2 hood swap program with on scene decon procedures and training. • Developed and delivered comprehensive training programs to new members and oversee regular training programs ensuring compliance with state and national standards. • Led the implementation of a new training records management and company officer training system. • Coordinate with other agencies during large-scale emergencies, enhancing inter- agency communication and response training. • Manage, plan, and trained personnel for various elements of the organization including those involving risk analysis, disaster planning and preparedness, emergency operations, and counter terrorism programs. • Led the implementation of Company Officer training in the National Incident Command System to improve department efficiency and effectiveness. • Managed a team responsible for all-hazards response, including fire, EMS, hazmat, and technical rescue. Division Chief of Support Services/Training Miami Beach Fire Department, June 2014 - September 2014 • Managed the accreditation process for the department. • Supervising the design, ordering and maintenance of all apparatus and equipment. • Inspected vehicle and equipment records/reports and maintained historical directives. • Served as a liaison between intra/inter agency personnel and accreditation bodies. • Function as air technician supervisor assuring compliance for NFPA, OSHA and re-training of air techs including SCBA program. Digna Abello Miami, FI 33175 Phone 305-367-7652 E-mail dabe]lo@miamibeachfl.gov Lieutenant / Background Investigator Miami Beach Fire Department, June 2010 -April 2014 • Demonstrated robust leadership and analytical abilities, enhancing departmental operations from recruitment through probationary periods. • Program development of the Fire Department's background investigation program, ensuring comprehensive vetting processes. • Successfully managed the processing of over 2000 applicants, overseeing background investigations and polygraph tests. • Employed advanced administrative skills to produce extensive reports, interdepartmental communications, and training materials. Firefighter Miami Beach Fire Department, 2005-2009 • Assisted station officer in station activities and assumed the role of station commander when needed. • Ensured compliance and repair of firefighter breathing systems in accordance with NFPA and OSHA standards. • Participated in company drills and operated all fire/rescue apparatus vehicles. • Responded to fire, medical, and other emergency incidents, providing critical services to the community. Education and Certifications • Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management, Barry University • State Certified Fire Instructor Ill • State Certified Fire Officer II • State Certified Fire Inspector • Incident Safety Officer • Professional Studies in Executive Management • State Certified Firefighter /State Certified Paramedic • Certified Public Pension Trustee (CPPT) • Certified General Contractor Exam - Passed • Computer Voice Stress Analyzer (CVSA) polygraph, NITV Federal Services • National Fire Academy Leadership 1 and 2 • Accreditation manager - Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) • Incident Command Management Certifications (100-800) • Trustee Leadership Forum - Harvard University • Accredited Fiduciary (NAF) • Various professional education from National Fire Academy, Special Operations, FEMA Digna Abello Miami, Fl 33175 Phone 305-367-7652 E-mail dabello@miamibeachf].gov Professional Affiliations/Memberships • Chairman/Vice Chairman, Miami Beach Fire Fighters Pension Relief, 2012- Present • Vice President, Fire Chiefs Association of Miami Dade County • STC Miami Beach Committee Member • Active member of several national and state fire service and public pension associations. Awards/Recognition • Received numerous awards including the Athena Rising Award, Hispanic Heritage Award, Above Beyond Duty, 3rd Annual Heroes Award, 2017, and nominations for significant contributions to the community and the fire service industry.