Deputy Chief Patrick LeDoux Selected as Kirkland’s Next Fire Chief
Published on May 12, 2026
Media Contact:
David Wolbrecht
Communications Program Manager
dwolbrecht@kirklandwa.gov
The City of Kirkland has selected Deputy Chief Patrick LeDoux as Kirkland’s next Fire Chief, effective June 1, 2026.
Many throughout the organization and community already know Chief LeDoux through his current role as Deputy Fire Chief. Since joining the Kirkland Fire Department last year, Chief LeDoux quickly built strong relationships across the department and throughout the City organization while helping improve service delivery, strengthening regional partnerships, and enhancing accountability.
With more than 30 years in the fire service, Chief LeDoux is widely recognized throughout the region as a trusted and effective leader. He currently serves as Chair of the Zone 1 Operations Chiefs and has played an important leadership role in the King County Fire Training Consortium and regional mobilization efforts.
“Chief LeDoux’s leadership reflects the values Kirkland residents expect from their fire department — service, accountability, collaboration, and care for the community,” said Deputy Mayor Neal Black. “We are excited for the future of the department under his leadership.”
Chief LeDoux holds IFSAC Fire Officer I, II, III, and IV certifications, as well as the prestigious Chief Fire Officer designation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence. Few chief officers in Washington State hold both credentials simultaneously.
Known for his collaborative leadership style, operational expertise, and commitment to accountability and transparency, Chief LeDoux has also remained active in the community through youth sports as a coach, association president, and board member.
Retiring Chief Joe Sanford has agreed to remain with the City as “Chief Emeritus” through at least June 30 to help support a thoughtful and seamless leadership transition. A formal retirement celebration honoring Chief Sanford’s distinguished career will be held in the coming months. The City extends its profound gratitude to Chief Sanford for 45 years of extraordinary service to the department and the Kirkland community.
“I’m truly honored to step into the role of Fire Chief in a community that means so much to me and my family,” said Chief LeDoux. “I’m committed to supporting our firefighters, strengthening regional partnerships, and ensuring we continue delivering exceptional service to the residents of Kirkland.”
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