Mark Bradford was today named as Lawrence’s new fire chief.

Bradford, who has been serving as acting chief of the Lawrence-Douglas County & Medical Department, was picked for the job by City Manager Mike Wildgen after the city reviewed 20 others who had applied for the spot, according to an announcement sent out by Wildgen’s office.

“Mark’s experience with leading fire medical departments, combined with his knowledge of Lawrence and Douglas County Fire Medical makes him an asset for the Lawrence community,” Wildgen said in the announcement. “I am pleased to appoint him as Fire Chief.”

Wildgen will introduce Bradford to the Lawrence City Commission prior to tonight’s city commission meeting.

Bradford has been serving as acting chief since the retirement of Jim McSwain, the former chief.

As fire chief, Bradford is responsible for all aspects of the Fire & Medical Department, including emergency medical and ambulance services, fire fighting, fire prevention and management of the department’s day to day activities, according to Wildgen’s office.

Bradford joined the department in February, 2001, after working at the International Association of Fire Chiefs and serving City of Lee’s Summit for 23 years, where he was assistant fire chief.

Bradford is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public administration at Kansas University. His annual salary will be $97,405, according to Wildgen’s office.