A 33-year veteran firefighter is Clayton County’s new fire chief.

The County Commission voted unanimously Tuesday night to appoint Interim Fire Chief Jeff Hood as chief and emergency management agency director.

Hood, a lifelong resident of Rex, began his firefighting career in 1978 working for an engine company. Three years later, he became a certified paramedic, Battalion Chief Landry Merkison said.

Hood will be sworn in at a later date, officials said.

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Travelers walk around the baggage claim in the South Terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. Atlanta is among the airports where the FAA will reduce flights due to the shutdown, and airports are facing a shortage of air traffic controllers. 
(Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez