John H. Brown, the former assistant fire chief for Albuquerque, New Mexico, was selected to replace retire Fire Chief James Wiggs. The Odessa City Manager Jerry McGuire stated that "he is very pleased that we have been able to get someone of Mr. Brown's experience and caliber." "I believe he will bring a real wealth of experience and innovation to move the fire department forward."

     John Brown, age 45, was selected from six finalist. He assumed his duties as Fire Chief on January 15th, 1996.

     John Brown, a firefighter who began his career 20 years ago in Albuquerque. He retired from the Albuquerque Fire Department in August of 1995. Before stepping down as assistant chief, he oversaw five fire stations that provided hazardous materials response, urban search and rescue and emergency medical service.

      Brown served as Odessa's Fire Chief  for four years from 1996 to 2000.