By Katie Knapp
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kios/local-kios-734464.mp3
Omaha, NE – Omaha has new Police and Fire Chiefs.
Eric Buske and Mike McDonnell were introduced Wednesday at the new Police and Fire Chiefs. Both had served as Interim Chiefs since the beginning of the year.
Chief Buske is a 23 year veteran of the Omaha Police Department. He was a finalist for Chief in 2003. Buske was in command at Westroads Mall during the December fifth shootings at Von Maur. Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey says that experience, combined with Buske's education, were factors in naming him Chief.
Mike McDonnell is an 18 year veteran of the Omaha Fire Department. Firefighting runs in his family his father and an uncle are retired Omaha firefighters. He says the Fire Department will remain committed to the safety of Omahans.
Chief Buske says his top priority is to suppress the violence in Omaha. He also wants to continue to improve community relations. McDonnell says he'll employ technology and additional training to improve the fire department.
Click on the link above to hear Wednesday's news conference.