In response to a request for a NO Confidence Vote.

We, the citizens of Austin, have complete faith and trust in our Fire Chief. He has earned the respect for his  years of service, action, and accountability. His leadership is not just respected—it is essential to the continued safety and strength of our community.

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Chief Joel Baker has served Austin with unwavering dedication, professionalism, and heart. Under his leadership, the Austin Fire Department (AFD) has become stronger, more inclusive, and better prepared to protect every corner of our city.

Chief Baker has prioritized safety, improved training and response times, and made it a mission to connect with the community—not just in times of crisis, but every day. His leadership isn’t about politics—it’s about people. The integrity, professionalism, and deep commitment he shows to public safety and community service are what make him an exceptional leader. His leadership during high-risk situations, such as the Kerrville flood response, is a testament to his thoughtful judgment and dedication to duty.

With Chief Baker at the helm, AFD has seen an increase in firemen and women who mirror the city they serve within its ranks, fostering an environment that is welcoming and inclusive to everyone. His innovative approaches to fire safety and community engagement have set new standards and are vital for our growing city.

Now more than ever, we must stand behind leaders who prioritize the well-being and safety of our communities. Chief Baker is such a leader. His calmness under pressure, objective, driven by public safety rather than political ambitions, ensures that the needs of Austin's residents are always met with the utmost importance.

This is a call to action to support Chief Joel Baker and his continued leadership of the Austin Fire Department. We urge the Austin City Council, Mayor Kirk Watson, and City Manager T.C. Broadnax to reaffirm their support for Chief Baker, ensuring that his valuable leadership continues to benefit all of Austin.

Please join us in supporting Chief Baker by signing this petition now. His commitment and dedication are crucial to the safety and prosperity of our community. Stand with us in advocating for leadership that truly makes a difference for Austin's future.

Sign, share, and speak up. Chief Baker stands for Austin—let’s stand with him.