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City of Albemarle City Manager Todd Clark announces the promotion of Kenneth C. “Kenny” Kendall Jr. to chief of the the city’s fire department.
Kendall joined the Albemarle Fire Department in December 1994 and rose through the ranks, becoming a captain in 2005. In 2011, Kendall was promoted to battalion chief. In 2022, he was named assistant fire chief, a role that provided him with opportunities to work in administrative areas such as budget, payroll and personnel management.
Kendall was instrumental in founding the City of Albemarle Firefighter Cadet Academy. The academy is an 18-week course featuring classroom and hands-on field instruction led by members of the City of Albemarle Fire Department and skill specialist instructors.
Upon completion, cadets earn their North Carolina State Firefighters Certification and are sworn into the fire service. In 2023, the academy was recognized by the Centralina Regional Council of Governments as an example of outstanding cross-community collaboration.
“I’m honored to lead the Albemarle Fire Department, where I’ve spent my entire career,” Kendall said. “With more than 30 years of experience in tactical operations, personnel management and administration, I’m eager to apply my knowledge and continue advancing our department’s mission of keeping our community safe. I recognize the immense responsibility that comes with being fire chief, and I’m grateful for the trust that has been placed in me.”
Clark said Kendall “earned his opportunity to lead the Albemarle Fire Department based on much more than just years of experience.”
“Through a rigorous evaluation process, Chief Kendall demonstrated impressive leadership qualities and a strong vision for the future of the Albemarle Fire Department. I look forward to seeing Chief Kendall lead AFD with the highest standards of service and professionalism for our community,” Clark said.
Kendall is an advocate of continuing education and is pursuing his Associate Degree in Fire Technology at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. He has also participated in the NC Association of Fire Chiefs Executive Development Program and NC Association of Fire Chiefs Training Management Programs.
Kendall is a lifelong resident of Stanly County. He has been married to his wife, Laina, for 12 years, and they have two children. Kendall serves as a Deacon at his church and has volunteered as a firefighter for 39 years. He currently serves as a member of the Stanly County Health and Human Service Board.