By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
- • St. Paul Fire Chief Barton “Butch” Inks retired after a 31-year career marked by emphasis on firefighter wellness and health initiatives.
- • Inks led the St. Paul Fire Department and championed physical and mental health supports for firefighters.
- • His retirement follows decades of service that included fire, EMS and department leadership roles.
- • A fire station renovation and reopening occurred under his tenure before his departure.
- • Officials and colleagues highlighted his legacy in shaping wellness culture within the department.
ST. PAUL, MN — St. Paul Fire Chief Barton “Butch” Inks has retired after a 31-year career with the St. Paul Fire Department, officials said, noting his leadership in advancing wellness initiatives for firefighters.
John Autey/TNS
Inks, who served in a range of roles from firefighter to chief, emphasized both physical and mental health supports for department personnel during his tenure, fire officials said.
Under his leadership, the department focused on strategies to support long-term health and resilience among firefighters amid the demands of fire and EMS service.
One of the notable events during Inks’ final year included the reopening of a renovated fire station on West Seventh Street and Grand Avenue, intended to enhance response capabilities in a busy area of the city.
Colleagues and local officials acknowledged Inks’ retirement as the close of a career that blended operational leadership with a sustained focus on firefighter wellbeing, training and support systems.