Scranton Fire Chief John Judge Has Accepted New Role

Fire Chief John Judge will depart his role in Scranton for a director position at the Centre Region Council of Governments.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration showing a polished brass fire badge resting on a brick surface, representing a leadership transition. — Scranton Fire Chief John Judge has accepted a director position with the Centre Region Council of Governments, effective early January 2027. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Scranton Fire Chief John Judge has accepted a new director position with the Centre Region Council of Governments. Judge will conclude his service to the city on January 2, 2027.

Why it matters

The transition comes as Judge seeks a new professional challenge after six years in the role, noting that he believes the Scranton Fire Department will benefit from fresh leadership. Judge is currently eligible for retirement and plans to begin his new tenure in late November.

The Centre Region Council of Governments oversees fire protection for 93,000 people across a 104-square-mile area. Meanwhile, the Scranton Fire Department currently manages 141 personnel operating out of seven local stations.

The players

John Judge

He is the 52-year-old outgoing Fire Chief and emergency management coordinator for the city of Scranton.

Paige Cognetti

She is the Mayor of Scranton who holds the authority to appoint city department heads with the consent of the City Council.

Shawn Kauffman

He is the outgoing director of the Centre Region Council of Governments fire services who will be shadowed by John Judge.

The details

John Judge will shadow outgoing director Shawn Kauffman beginning in late November to prepare for his new responsibilities. The appointment process for Scranton department heads requires approval from the Mayor and the City Council.

December 2001: John Judge began his service to Scranton as a police officer.
November 30, 2020: John Judge was appointed Scranton Fire Chief.
October 2026: John Judge will visit State College to shadow emergency operations.
Late November 2026: John Judge is expected to begin his new role.
January 2, 2027: John Judge will have his last official day with the Scranton Fire Department.

Market Landscape

The movement of municipal executives between regional government bodies reflects a broader trend of administrative competition for experienced public safety leadership. This transition underscores how neighboring jurisdictions utilize veteran talent to manage large-scale emergency service operations.

Residents should expect a change in fire department administration following the departure of the current chief in early 2027. The city will need to undergo the established appointment process to ensure continued emergency management oversight.

The takeaway

High-level personnel transitions in municipal departments often serve as a catalyst for organizational restructuring. Residents should monitor future City Council meetings to stay informed about the selection process for new department heads.