(Lawrenceville, Ga., Sept. 15, 2009) - County Administrator Glenn Stephens has named Bill Myers as Gwinnett's new fire chief effective Sept. 19. Myers, a 26-year veteran of the County's Fire and Emergency Services Department, replaces Steve Rolader, who retires on Friday after 33 years with the County. The Board of Commissioners approved Myers' appointment during the Tuesday business session. Myers will oversee a department of 800 employees. His annual salary will be $135,000.

"Bill Myers is the perfect choice to lead Fire and Emergency Services," said Stephens. "He has risen through the ranks of the department from firefighter to assistant chief and now chief, gaining the deep respect of employees along the way. I am impressed with Bill's devotion to the organization as reflected in his prudent, achievement-oriented management style of open communication and shared leadership responsibilities. Bill will be a valuable addition to our team of department directors and his appointment brings to our senior management team yet another person of great character who is dedicated to public service."

After serving in the United States Navy, Myers began his career with Gwinnett County in 1983 and has since worked in every area of the department. He attended the first paramedic program offered by the department and served in some of its busiest fire stations. Myers led the development of innovative fire and medical techniques, employee leadership and career training programs, and the improvement of a work-safe environment.

"Gwinnett County places a heavy emphasis on succession planning and the appointment of Bill Myers is a great testament to its success," said Commission Chairman Charles Bannister. "I appreciate the dedication shown by our retiring Chief Steve Rolader throughout his many years of service and am certain he shares my enthusiasm that the organization has such an excellent candidate in Bill."

Myers graduated from the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program and holds a bachelor's degree in safety engineering and a master's degree in public administration. He lives in Lilburn with his wife Jami. They have two daughters, Jessi and Kadi.