ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- Anne Arundel County Executive John Leopold announced the appointment of Deputy Fire Chief J. Robert Ray as the county's next fire chief.

Jennifer Franciotti Reports

He will succeed David Stokes, who is retiring Oct. 1 after more than 30 years in the department.

Leopold praised Stokes for fiscal responsibility and for developing partnerships between career and volunteer firefighters in the county.

Anne Arundel County is one of the largest combination fire departments in the country, and Stokes recognized the importance of heart health by securing a huge wellness grant to improve fitness.

Leopold said he is confident of a smooth transition.

Ray said he knows he's taking over a fire department already kept in great shape by a man who will be missed.

Ray brings more than 30 years of service to the county to his new job as chief. He is a former head of the county's Department of Inspections and Permits.

He said to lead the department is a dream come true.

For the second year, the fire department is coming in under budget, with a $300,000 surplus in overtime and a $2 million surplus in operating costs, county officials said.