Leadership

As Administrator, Mr. Richter provides executive-level leadership to Township operations, planning, budgeting, and project and staff management. Mr. Richter oversees a budget of $31.4 million, 4 administrative staff, 102 full time firefighters, and 25 part-time firefighters. The Washington Township Fire Department consists of fire suppression and prevention, technical rescue, and emergency medical. Mr. Richter also oversees township programs and services for residents of the City of Dublin and the unincorporated Washington Township.

Chief Alec O’Connell was sworn in as the Washington Township Fire Chief in 2014. Chief O’Connell began his career as a part-time firefighter, advancing to full-time firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain, Battalion Chief and Assistant Chief before being promoted to the Fire Department’s top leadership position. Having served the Township for over 33 years, Chief O’Connell has been an integral part of ensuring quality fire and EMS services through the growth of the Dublin area and a department that has earned ISO Class One Certification and is CFAI accredited.

When not responding to the needs of the fire department, Chief O’Connell is spending quality time with his wife and two daughters.

Assistant Chief Donahue was sworn in as the Washington Township Assistant Fire Chief in 2023. Donahue brings a vast knowledge & experience in fire service to WTFD. With a career spanning nearly 44 years, Asst. Chief Donahue serves the public with a willingness to learn & brings continued safety to the Dublin Community. He served as the Fire Chief for the City of Delaware for 16 years before coming to Washington Township. High quality service is one of the many attributes that Donahue brings with him. Starting in the fire service industry as a 14-year-old cadet and rising the ranks quickly through the years, Donahue has been at the forefront of emergency management, proactively leading fire departments for success, and continued his personal & professional development through lifelong education and learning.

When not responding to the needs of the fire department, Assistant Chief Donahue is spending time with family, playing golf with friends, and cheering on the Reds and Xavier basketball.