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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University of Georgia students are seen entering and leaving the main Library on the Athens campus on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez