Lafayette, LA (April 22, 2026) – According to a press release from Lafayette Consolidated Government, Mayor-President Monique B. Boulet has selected Earl Borden as the next chief of the Lafayette Fire Department following a national search that began August 18, 2025.
The selection process included civil service testing, assessments conducted by the Louisiana Office of State Examiner, multiple rounds of structured interviews, and a final panel review. Officials said the process was designed to identify a candidate with the experience and leadership needed to oversee the state’s fourth-largest fire department.
Borden brings more than twenty years of experience in fire and emergency services, including more than three years as fire chief of the St. Bernard Parish Fire Department. He is expected to complete a Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California in 2026. He also holds a Master of Science in Fire and Emergency Management Administration from Oklahoma State University and a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from Upper Iowa University.
He is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program and the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ Fire Service Executive Development Institute.
Boulet said the administration sought a thorough and fair selection process.
“With public safety as a top priority, it was essential that we conduct a fair and thorough process with strong candidates,” Boulet said. “Earl Borden stood out at every stage. His steady leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to Lafayette earned him strong support from the evaluation panel.”
The position became available following the retirement of Fire Chief Robert P. Benoit, who served thirty-two years as chief. The search included candidates from local, regional, and national pools and involved a panel of fire service professionals, community representatives, and government officials.
Pastor Sean Walker, a member of the selection panel, said the process reflected a range of perspectives from the community.
“This process was thoughtfully designed and reflective of the Lafayette community,” Walker said. “The panel included a strong mix of perspectives, and the administration ensured that the selection was both fair and comprehensive.”
Borden said he plans to work with department personnel and community leaders as he takes on the role.
“As fire chief of Lafayette, I look forward to working with department personnel, city leadership, and community stakeholders to build upon the department’s strong foundation while continuing to advance operational excellence, firefighter safety, and service to the citizens of Lafayette,” Borden said.
Borden will assume the role after the hiring process is completed. He is expected to focus on department operations, accountability, and public safety.
