St. Paul Fire Chief Tim Butler was reappointed Thursday by Mayor Chris Coleman to serve his second term as head of the city's fire department.

Butler was first appointed in 2007, after he served as St. Paul's first director of emergency management.

"Chief Butler has proved time after time that he is the best person to lead the St. Paul Fire Department," Coleman said, in a statement. "His commitment to continuing the SPFD's long tradition of providing great service to our residents is reflected in his work every day, and his accomplishments are many. I am delighted to reappoint Tim as Chief."

According to the news release, listed among Butler's accomplishments during his six-year tenure was the addition of super-medic units, which increased traditional companies to six-member teams and improved response times, increased fire engine availability and the creation of the department's EMS Academy and Basic Life Support transport unit. The EMS Academy aims to recruit and train young adults from diverse backgrounds.

Butler is a retired member of the U.S. Coast Guard and Reserves. He served in U.S. military contingency operations in Grenada, Europe and Iraq.

"We have a lot to be proud of in the St. Paul Fire Department, and many accomplishments to celebrate," Butler said, in a statement. "I look forward to continuing our work on public engagement, increasing diversity, and providing quality service to St. Paul's residents."

The St. Paul City Council is expected to vote on Butler's appointment at its August 7 meeting. Butler's term would begin Nov. 24.

Nicole Norfleet • 612-673-4495

Twitter: @stribnorfleet