Youngstown Fire Chief Barry Finley submits resignation

At the start of the new year, long time Fire Chief Barry Finley will hang up his helmet and move on from the Youngstown fire department.

The decision comes after what he describes as eight years of disrespect and turmoil with the fire union.

Finley exclusively told 21 News Reporter Sydney Canty, "I cannot lead because they won't let me. I can't get these firefighters to get me to lead them where they need to go."

In his resignation letter to Mayor-elect Derrick McDowell, he said he's "...worked hard, trained hard and given his very best to lead the Youngstown Fire Department with integrity, courage and a deep commitment to public safety."

Tensions with the union have bubbled over in the last few years, from paraphernalia floating around the department that said "FBF," an apparent profane reference to Finley, to allegations from the union that rolling station closures due to a lack of man power, put the safety of Youngstown residents in danger.

Finely has also voiced complaints about call-offs, while the union has voiced concerns over racially charged language.

Mayor Tito Brown once called it "...an environment of continuous tension and distrust between union and department leadership..."

Finley's letter continues, "My hope is that my successor will have the support and resources necessary to lead YFD into a progressive, thriving and resilient future. While you can possess all of the motivation, drive and determination, without support, you will surely fail..."

Finley said he sat down with McDowell for 3 hours after sending in his resignation, but he had no desire to reapply for his position.

Finley said he didn't want his continued presence to become a distraction to the new administration or hinder momentum. His last day with the department will be December 31st.

Finley said he stands ready to assist the incoming fire chief.

Fire Union President Chris Weaver was shocked to hear the news and did not have a comment at this time.

21 News did reach out to McDowell and received a statement back. You can read that below. 

Finley's full letter:

Congratulations on your election and on the beginning of a new chapter of leadership for the City of Youngstown I am grateful for your recent communication and the invitation to re-apply for this position of Fire Chief and discuss my vision for the future of the Youngstown Fire Department. Thank you for the respect and consideration you have shown throughout this transition process.

As a lifelong resident of Youngstown, it has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve this city its families, its neighborhoods, and its future. For the past eight years, I have worked hard, trained hard, and given my very best to lead the Youngstown Fire Department with integrity, courage, and a deep commitment to public safety.

After giving considerable thought to your invitation and to the needs of both the department and the incoming administration, I have made the decision to retire rather than re-apply for the Fire Chief position. This decision comes from a place of respect-for you, for the work ahead of your administration, and for the city I love. I do not want my continued presence to become a distraction or hinder the momentum and success you are preparing to build.

While I was not able to fully implement the long-term solvency and operational plans I envisioned for the department, my priority has always been the forward movement of Youngstown. With that same spirit, I am committed to supporting a smooth and effective transition. I stand ready and willing to assist the incoming Fire Chief in any way needed during this period to ensure stability, continuity, and a strong foundation for the work ahead.

My hope is that my successor will have the support and resources necessary to lead

YFD into a progressive, thriving, and resilient future, while you can possess all of the motivation, drive and determination without support you will surely fail, under your guidance and leadership, I believe success is not only possible but well within reach.

Youngstown deserves a department-and an administration equipped for growth, innovation, and unwavering service to our community

Thank you again for the opportunity to serve, and for the invitation to continue that service. I leave my post with gratitude, humility, and confidence that the City of YOUngstown is entering a promising new era.

I wish you, your administration, and our great city nothing but success.

Respectfully, 

Barry F. Finley

Fire Chief (Ret.) 

City of Youngstown

McDowell's Response:

Today, as our city learns of the resignation of its current Fire Chief Barry Finley, it cannot be more plainly stated that he has more than faithfully served our community and has commanded the respect of his fellow firefighters throughout his decades long service.

As Mayor-elect, I respect his decision and thank him for this service and dedication to public safety.

This moment marks the end of an era for the City of Youngstown.

Chief Finley has been a decorated leader whose commitment to service, courage, and the safety of our residents has defined his career and strengthened our community. His legacy is woven into the fabric of the Youngstown Fire Department — from the firefighters he trained and mentored to the countless lives protected under his leadership.

As we honor his service, we also recognize that Youngstown is entering into a new chapter. Change brings opportunity. This is an opportunity to build on the strong foundation Chief Finley and those before him, leave behind; to unite around our shared commitment to public safety, and to shape the future of the department with transparency, vision, and community partnership.

As I prepare to take office on January 1, 2026, I remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents. The selection of the next fire chief is being made with careful consideration - guided by professionalism, experience, and the goal of building public trust and departmental unity.

The priority is to maintain stability in public safety services and to ensure a smooth, seamless transition so there is no disruption in service to our community.

I invite the community to celebrate Chief Finley while we remain united around and supportive of our entire fire department as we move forward.

I look forward to working with all stakeholders, firefighters, city employees, and residents to build a more effective, responsive, and inclusive Youngstown fire department for everyone.