MEDFORD, Ore. — The City of Medford has chosen a candidate to replace retiring Fire Chief Brian Fish, according to a statement issued on Tuesday.

Eric Thompson hails from Red Oak, Texas, where he served as both Fire Chief and Assistant City Manager for the past 16 years, the City of Medford said.

Chief Fish announced his retirement in June and plans to stay with the department through Thompson's transition into the position. Thompson is scheduled to start on January 2 of 2020.

“It was a competitive process with several strong candidates, and I am confident that Chief Thompson will lead the Medford Fire-Rescue Department with integrity,” said City Manager Brian Sjothun.

The City said that Thompson acted as the north branch resource coordinator for Texas Intra Fire Mutual Aid System — coordinating mutual aid resources for 33 counties. He was awarded the 2018 Fire Chief of the Year Award from the Texas Fire Chiefs Association, as well as the 2014 and 2018 Presidents Award.

Thompson will be moving to Medford with his wife Laura and his son Reese, the City of Medford said.