Renton’s Fire Chief I. David Daniels has resigned to accept the top job with the Woodinville Fire and Life Safety District.

Daniels has been the chief of Renton’s Fire and Emergency Services Department for three years. He has nearly three decades in fire services.

Daniels said Wednesday the offer came as a surprise. The Woodinville distict has been looking for new fire chief for several months. Commissioners met Daniels a few months back at a meeting of the King County’s fire commissioners at Fire District 40.

Daniels relates that after meeting him, commissioners said amongst themselves, “We need somebody like him.”

Other candidates for the job were judged against Daniels. A deal was struck this week.

“The district made me an offer I couldn’t refuse,” he said.

He said his decision had nothing to do with the tight financial times the City of Renton is facing.

Daniels will make $160,000; his City of Renton salary is $147,000. Woodinville also offers to reimburse tuition. That’s important to Daniels who is considering getting a doctorate degree.

“Chief Daniels’ depth of experience at all levels of the fire service and proven leadership are unmatched,” said Clint Olson, chair of the Woodinville Board of Fire Commissioners.

Daniels, who will remain living in Renton, will take over a department smaller than Renton’s.

The Woodinville district has four fire stations, 83 personnel and a $14 million budget. Renton has four stations within the city, 152 employees and a $19 million budget.

Daniels told city officials of his decision early in the week.

“I think it was a surprise for all of us,” said city spokeswoman Preeti Shridhar. “We are certainly happy for him.”

Who will succeed Daniels on an interim basis hadn’t been decided mid-week.

Daniels will remain through the end of the year, Shridhar said.