Central Pierce Fire & Rescue commissioners unanimously appointed Deputy Chief Tim Pierce as the department’s interim leader Monday night as the board begins its search for a new permanent chief.
Jack Andren, a 40-plus-year veteran who returned from retirement to lead the state’s fourth-largest fire department, had retired again effective July 31 after serving as interim fire chief since September 2015.
Pierce’s temporary appointment is subject to a service agreement with the board. He will be sworn in during the commission’s Aug. 22 meeting.
“I’m glad that you’re willing to step up,” Commissioner Bill Eckroth said to Pierce before moving to appoint him.
“Especially with 30 minutes’ notice,” added fellow Commissioner Lyle Nelson.
Board Chairman Bob Willis said Pierce’s fellow deputy chief, Baron Banks, would have been overwhelmed by assuming the duties of fire chief while also managing Central Pierce’s bond projects. Pierce is head of field operations.