CHIEF MARIAN MCDANIEL
ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. - Rockdale County Fire Chief Marian McDaniel has stepped down from her role, leaving questions about the future leadership of the department as the community grapples with recent public safety challenges after a recent chemical fire.
What we know:
Rockdale County officials have confirmed that Chief Marian McDaniel resigned from her position on Feb. 3. McDaniel, who was appointed in December 2020, made history as the first Black woman to serve as Fire Chief in the county. In response to her resignation, CEO JaNice Van Ness appointed Deputy Chief of Operations James Robinson as the Interim Fire Chief.
Officials emphasized that their priority remains ensuring the fire department provides the "very best in service levels." They also expressed confidence that this leadership transition will support their mission to deliver quality services to the community.
What we don't know:
The reason behind McDaniel’s resignation has not been disclosed by county officials, leaving the community speculating about the sudden leadership change. County officials did say that her resignation is not related to the BioLab incident.
The backstory:
Rockdale County faced significant public safety challenges following the BioLab fire last September. The fire prompted mandatory evacuations, shelter-in-place orders, and the closure of nearby Interstate 20. Over 150 firefighters battled the blaze, which released a massive chemical-laden smoke plume that lingered in the air for days.
RELATED: Rockdale County ends shelter-in-place order after BioLab chemical fire cleanup
Activists have expressed frustration with county leaders over their handling of the incident, particularly after BioLab was permitted to partially reopen. Several lawsuits, including one filed by the county, have been filed against BioLab in the aftermath of the fire.
RELATED: Rockdale County files federal lawsuit against BioLab after Conyers plant fire
What's next:
As the county moves forward with Interim Fire Chief James Robinson, officials remain focused on maintaining high service levels within the fire department. The community will be watching closely for any updates regarding McDaniel’s resignation and potential changes in leadership.