ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg Fire Rescue Chief James Large, who was placed on leave earlier this month amid allegations of racism and homophobia, will be reinstated.

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The announcement was made Wednesday by Mayor Ken Welch. Large will be back in his role Thursday.

"While the past few weeks have presented some uncertainty for our dedicated team of firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, and support personnel, they have continued to deliver the exceptional service and high-quality care St. Pete residents have come to expect and rely on," Welch said.

"This period of review has not diminished their unwavering commitment to duty."

Welch said he conducted personal interviews and spoke with members of the community. He said no one had first-hand knowledge of racist or sexist comments from the chief.

City records show one complaint filed in his tenure as chief. That complaint was unsubstantiated, Welch said.

The allegations that led to Large being placed on leave came out of an employee climate survey conducted by the city.

Large said last week he would not retire or step aside and plans to fight the allegations to remain in his position.

“This where I spent most of my life. I love this city, but it is necessary for my family and I to defend ourselves,” Large said.