Harkness will lead Orange fire/EMS

Orange County has named John Harkness as its new fire and emergency medical services chief.

Harkness most recently served as Richmond's battalion chief, where he led that fire department's emergency medical services. He is a life member of the Lake of the Woods Rescue Station, was a volunteer with the Mine Run Fire Department, and served for five years as Orange County emergency management coordinator.

"Mr. Harkness has a wealth of experience, knowledge and contacts, and will be an outstanding asset to our fire and EMS efforts and to the quality service we aim to provide Orange County citizens," County Administrator Julie Summs said.

Tom Joyce has been acting fire and EMS director since the retirement last month of Jamie Clark. Harkness will begin serving in the new position effective July 1.

--Dan McFarland