CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) - The deputy chief in an Oregon city is the first woman to be named fire chief in Charleston.

Karen E. Brack is expected to start in her new job Aug. 1 after moving from Eugene, Ore., where she's deputy fire chief. She'll make $137,000 a year.

Mayor Joe Riley announced Brack's appointment Friday. He will ask the City Council to endorse Brack when it meets May 22.

The 55-year-old Brack has more than 30 years of experience in the fire service.

Brack was selected over three other finalists and a national pool of 61. She'll take over a department that's in the middle of an accreditation process, and will be responsible for leading fire crews on the peninsula, West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island, and Daniel Island.

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