FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2025
John Oprandy Joins the City as Emergency Management Coordinator
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - John Oprandy joined the City of Charlottesville on Tuesday, September 2nd as Emergency Management Coordinator with more than 25 years of experience with the Albemarle County Fire Rescue, where he most recently served as Deputy Chief of Emergency Management. In that role, he established the County’s Office of Emergency Management in 2019, built a countywide Incident Management Team, and launched the Emergency Operations Center. He also led strategic initiatives to strengthen community preparedness and resilience. Prior to his tenure with Albemarle County, John served with the Charlottesville Fire Department from 1992 to 1999, giving him deep roots in the community.
Throughout his career, John has advanced operational leadership, continuity planning, capital project management, and regional collaboration across public safety agencies. His efforts have shaped policy, enhanced emergency response capabilities, and secured critical grants and capital investments for infrastructure, equipment, and training.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the City of Charlottesville again. In just my first week, I’ve already seen the potential and priorities ahead for the City’s emergency management and preparedness efforts,” said John. “I look forward to working with the City Manager’s Office, City Council, and this engaged community to strengthen our readiness and resilience.”
As a skilled facilitator and instructor, John has led national fire service leadership workshops and championed efforts to build a more inclusive and diverse fire rescue workforce. He holds a bachelor's degree in emergency service management and computer information systems from James Madison University and remains active in the community through nonprofit leadership and volunteer service.
"John returns to the City with deep experience in Emergency Management,” said City Manager Sam Sanders. “We look forward to him building out a reliable framework to help ensure this community is safe and ready to respond to any emergency we may face.”
Media Contact
Afton Schneider
Director of Communications and Public Engagement
City of Charlottesville
434-996-0331
schneidera@charlottesville.gov