After more than three decades in firefighting, Yelm area resident Dan Mahoney has a title he’s never had before: chief.
Mahoney became chief of Lewis County Fire District 5 in Napavine on Aug. 1 after spending his firefighting career — most of which was on a volunteer basis — at numerous departments throughout Thurston County.
“I just look forward to what’s coming up,” said Mahoney, who added that with such a short amount of time in the area, he’s learning the ropes and asking a lot of questions. He said one of his short-term goals is to develop a strong working relationship with city officials and the community.
“Communication is my No. 1 thing that I believe in,” he said.
Mahoney, a New York state native, said he came to Washington after a stint in the Navy. He ended up on Whidbey Island and has stayed in the Evergreen State ever since.