Joel G. Baker, chief of the Austin Fire Department, is facing sharp criticism from the city’s firefighters union after reports emerged that he blocked rescue teams from helping flood-stricken areas in Central Texas. (Also Read: Houston Pediatrician Fired After Post Mocking Texas Flood Victims Goes Viral)
The Austin Firefighters Association (AFA) went public with its concerns on Monday, claiming Baker refused to allow trained Austin firefighters to assist in rescue operations in Kerr County during the weekend floods.
They are now planning a formal no-confidence vote scheduled for July 8.
Union Calls the Decision “Disgraceful”
In a strongly worded post, the AFA said Baker’s refusal was “an egregious dereliction of duty.” The union didn’t hold back.
“It is absolutely outrageous that the Austin Fire Chief, Joel G. Baker, would not allow highly trained firefighters from Austin to respond to Kerrville,” they wrote.
“Lives were very likely lost because of Chief Baker’s decision,” the statement added. “We are disgusted with our fire chief. He needs to be held accountable and fired.”
Baker’s Background and Tenure
Joel Baker has served as Austin’s fire chief since December 2018. His firefighting career began in 1986 with the East Point Fire Department in Georgia.
From 1988 to 2018, he worked with the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, where he eventually rose to the top leadership position before retiring and relocating to Texas.
He holds degrees from Georgia State University and Columbus State University.
Floods Leave Over 100 Dead in Central Texas
The backlash comes as the death toll from the floods in Texas climbed to 100, marking one of the most severe natural disasters in the region’s history. Texas, known more for drought than flooding, has been left reeling.
President Donald Trump called it a “100-year catastrophe” on Sunday and said he plans to visit the impacted areas on Friday.
Texas Public Safety Chief Freeman Martin said at least 41 people are still missing, as search efforts continue.
City Officials Yet to Respond
Neither Baker nor Austin city leadership has issued an official response to the union’s allegations or the upcoming no-confidence vote.
For now, the department remains under scrutiny. The debate over Baker’s leadership, and how cities should coordinate aid in regional disasters, continues to unfold.
