Lexington Fire Chief Jason Wells Announced Retirement

The city's 19th fire chief will step down in January after a 30-year career with the department.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in People

Lexington Fire Chief Jason Wells Announced Retirement

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Lexington Fire Chief Jason Wells has announced his retirement after serving the department for 30 years. He has led the agency as its 19th chief since January 2021.

Why it matters

The change in leadership comes as the city prepares for a transition in its emergency services management. Mayor Linda Gorton is overseeing the selection process to name a replacement for the departing chief.

Chief Jason Wells concludes a 30-year career with the Lexington Fire Department, serving as the 19th person to hold the role since January 2021. The department recently expanded its fleet by adding three new fire engines to city stations.

The players

Jason Wells

He is the 19th fire chief of the Lexington Fire Department who is concluding a 30-year career.

Linda Gorton

She is the Mayor of Lexington who is responsible for appointing the next fire chief.

Kristin Chilton

She is the former fire chief of the Lexington Fire Department whom Jason Wells replaced in 2021.

The details

Chief Wells previously served as the assistant chief of prevention and preparedness before succeeding Kristin Chilton. During his tenure, the department modernized its operations by partnering with Safe Haven Baby Box to install a device at Fire Station No. 2.

Jason Wells became fire chief in January 2021.
Three new fire engines were deployed to city stations on September 14, 2026.
The retirement was officially announced on September 21, 2026.
A successor is expected to be named by early December 2026.
Chief Wells will serve his final day on January 10, 2027.

Market Landscape

This transition in fire department command reflects broader shifts in municipal emergency leadership. The incoming chief will oversee the continued management of the city ambulance service and recent fleet upgrades.

The leadership change may influence long-term department policies regarding emergency response and city-run ambulance services. Residents should monitor official city communications for the appointment of a new chief in December.

The takeaway

The retirement of a long-standing chief marks the end of a three-decade tenure for a key public safety leader. Residents can expect further updates on departmental priorities once the new chief is appointed this winter.