Southern Wisconsin Times

City of Janesville Fire Chief James Ponkauskas will retire on May 31, 2024, after serving 30 years with the Janesville Fire Department (JFD).

Chief Ponkauskas began his career in the fire service in 1988 as a Firefighter/EMT for the Orfordville Fire Protection District, where he served as Fire Chief for 13 of his 26 years as a department member. He joined the JFD in 1994 as a Firefighter/Paramedic. 

During his tenure with the JFD, he has held the position of Firefighter, Firefighter/Paramedic, Motor Pump Operator, Lieutenant, Acting Captain, Shift Commander, and Deputy Fire Chief. In September 2021, The Police and Fire Commission selected him to serve as Janesville's 38th Fire Chief.

"It has been an honor working for the City of Janesville, and I will take with me many great memories," said Chief Ponkauskas. "The community members of Janesville have always been supportive of fire and EMS-related initiatives."

At the department's helm, Chief Ponkauskas has been responsible for all services provided by the JFD. These efforts include fire suppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention, and other emergency and non-emergency requests for assistance from the public. Chief Ponkauskas manages these services with the support of key staff members from within the JFD and with the cooperation of other City agencies.

“Chief Ponkauskas’ dedication and commitment to the safety and security of the City of Janesville is clearly demonstrated by his honorable and accomplished 30 years of service,” said City Manager Kevin Lahner. “We wish him well in his well-deserved retirement.”

During his employment with the City, James has seen many changes in the fire service. In 2016, Chief Ponkauskas was the JFD's Project Manager responsible for overseeing the construction of the City's Central Fire Station. Along with City Administration, he worked through implementing the City's fifth paramedic ambulance in 2022. One of his many milestone projects is the joint effort Chief Ponkauskas helped lead that saw the JFD Administration and Janesville Firefighters Local 580 partner to obtain grant funding and develop the department's new Physical and Cancer Screening program.

"I would like to thank the Janesville City Council, the Police and Fire Commission, and City Administration for supporting the department and making public safety a priority," added Chief Ponkauskas. "I have had the pleasure of working with so many dedicated and capable department personnel, and their drive to serve our community has guided me through my career."

Selection of the next Janesville Fire Chief

The Janesville Police and Fire Commission appoints the position of Fire Chief. The Commission is working on a process to name the next Fire Chief by May 2024.

For questions, contact the City Manager's Office at (608) 755-3196.

Original source can be found here.