Crestwood has officially hired a new fire chief following unanimous approval by the Board of Aldermen. Ryan Harrell, the battalion chief for the Clayton Fire Department, will now helm Crestwood’s department, taking over the role from Leo Meyer, who retired in October.

Harrell, a lifelong St. Louis resident, has over 26 years of fire service under his belt, having served in positions such as battalion chief, logistics chief, recruiting officer, public information officer and fire prevention specialist. Additionally, he holds a bachelor’s degree in fire and safety engineering, a master’s degree in public administration and carries extensive state and federal certifications.

“This combination of operational experience, his management skills (and) regional collaboration will directly benefit Crestwood and continue strengthening our fire service to meet long-term needs,” Crestwood Mayor Scott Shipley said.

Harrell came before the board at its Nov. 25 meeting to introduce himself, discussing his upbringing in nearby Fenton and his love for the Cardinals. Harrell originally went to school to become an accountant, though after seeing a big fire on the news, he decided to ditch the numbers and become a first responder, following in the footsteps of his father, a retired police officer.

Harrell will officially start his new role as Crestwood’s fire chief on Jan. 2.