On Wednesday, Ogden City announced in a press release that Mayor Ben Nadolski will forward Deputy Fire Chief Mike Slater’s name to the Ogden City Council as his recommendation for appointment as the next chief of the Ogden City Fire Department. Slater would be taking over for Mathieu, who is set to retire July 15 after four decades with the department.

Nadolski had high praise for Slater, saying that a strong culture has grown around the fire department throughout the years.

“Mike Slater exemplifies everything we value in public service and leadership,” Nadolski said in the release. “He has risen through the ranks with humility, earned the trust of his peers, and always put service to our people first. Throughout this selection process, it became clear that the Ogden Fire Department is well-known and widely respected in the fire service community. In consultation with our employee union and through many conversations with department members and partners, I’ve heard a consistent message — the culture is strong, our people are proud of the department they have built, and they’re ready and energized to continue building on that legacy of excellence.”

He added that he has faith Slater would continue to build on this culture if appointed chief.

“Mike’s experience in the department and his local, regional, and national insights make him the right leader to bring new energy and fresh ideas to the job while building on the foundation that defines this department,” Nadolski said. “I’m proud to forward his name to the City Council as my selection for Ogden’s next Fire Chief.”

Slater told the Standard-Examiner in an email Wednesday that serving Ogden has been a privilege.

“I am committed to this department, to Ogden’s residents, and to the firefighters who place their trust in me,” he said. “I am incredibly honored that they have confidence in my leadership, and I will work tirelessly to keep our community and our crews safe.”

He added that he joined the Ogden City Fire Department in 1997 as a reservist and began to serve full time in 1999. He’s held several roles since joining, including paramedic, SWAT paramedic, fire captain, hazardous materials captain, battalion chief and deputy chief.

Slater said, if appointed, he hopes to continue to build on the department’s existing strengths.

“Should I be appointed, my focus will be on recruiting and retaining the highest caliber firefighters,” he said. “Our department will remain laser-focused on our mission and on serving this community with love, compassion, and precision. Through data-driven strategies, we will refine our emergency response efforts, proactively engage with Community Health, and address underlying needs before they escalate to emergencies.”

He also had praise for his predecessor in the position.

“Chief Mike Mathieu has been a tremendous mentor throughout my career,” Slater said. “His legacy of leadership and innovative spirit will continue to guide me, especially as I stand humbly honored to be considered for the position of Fire Chief. While we still need to make it through the council meeting next week, I am deeply grateful for this opportunity.”

According to the press release, Ogden Firefighters’ Union Local 552 — which represents 90% of the Ogden City Fire Department — endorsed Slater to take on the fire chief role.

The recommendation to appoint Slater as fire chief will be taken up by the City Council during its July 15 meeting. If approved, he will fill the role effective immediately.