Binaski sworn in as Clovis fire chief

John Binaski was formally sworn in Monday as chief of the Clovis Fire Department, two days after his appointment took effect.

The formal swearing-in took place before the Clovis City Council, which had approved the appointment earlier this month.

Binaski replaces Micheal Despain, who left to become fire chief in Lincoln, Neb.

Binaski, 45, started with Clovis as deputy fire chief in 2013. Prior to that, he worked 11 years for the city of Tulare’s fire department, rising through the ranks to division chief in 2011. He also served previously with the Kingsburg Fire Department and the Orange County Fire Department.

This story was originally published July 18, 2016 at 9:30 PM with the headline "Binaski sworn in as Clovis fire chief."