51°
“TJ Wiedl has served the Danbury Fire Department for decades, and his experience and skills make him a great choice for the position of fire chief," Boughton said in a statement. "I know TJ will be a fine leader and motivator for our fire safety personnel, and I am excited to begin working with him as he becomes a key member of our management team."
Born, raised, and educated in Danbury, Wiedl began his firefighting career as a volunteer with Citizens Hose Co No. 6 in 1972. He was appointed to the Danbury Fire Department in 1980, promoted to lieutenant in 1999, deputy fire marshal in 2005, and assistant fire chief in 2007.
Wiedl brings with him nearly three decades of professional experience with the Danbury Fire Department along with a degree in fire technology. He also serves as an adjunct professor for Naugatuck Valley Community College.
Wiedl lives in Danbury with his wife, Denise, who is a teacher at Danbury High School. The couple has four adult sons.
Boughton worked with a committee created for the purpose of hiring the new fire chief: Human Resources Director Virginia Alosco-Werner, Councilmen Phil Curran and Fred Visconti, and former president of the Danbury Volunteer Firemen’s Council, Bernie Gallo.
Wiedl is expected to begin as fire chief the first week of October. He replaces Geoff Herald, who retired in July. Wiedl had been named interim chief when Herald stepped down.
"I wish him and the department well, fair winds and good fortune. I am certain that the city will be well served," Herald said in an earlier statement.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Danbury and receive free news updates.
