At its April 19th meeting, Douglas County Fire District No.2’s Board of Directors accepted Fire Chief Michael Hansen’s resignation in line with his desire to retire. The Board then appointed Deputy Chief Greg Marlar as the District’s Interim Fire Chief.
The interim appointment of Deputy Chief Marlar ensures continuity of leadership and the District’s future success, while allowing the Board the necessary time to prepare a succession plan to permanently fill the Fire Chief’s position. Chief Hansen has agreed to work with staff and the Board as needed to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.
Chief Hansen joined the District on 1990 with the rank of Battalion Chief and was appointed the District’s Fire Chief on 1999. During his tenure as Chief the District experienced significant growth as an organization with the purchase of WEST Ambulance assets, when its owner and joint partner in Med-Com retired, and with the contractual agreement to provide fire and ambulance services to the City of Sutherlin. Chief Hansen’s vision, leadership, constant philosophy of quality customer service and his ability to work with others for the benefit of the District’s stakeholders and employees will be certainly missed.
Since he joined the District in July of 2004, Chief Marlar has been responsible for the oversight of emergency services delivery, and for the implementation and management of several of the District support programs. These programs include human resources, governmental affairs, employee training, professional development, and logistics. The District’s Board Chairman, Dan Yoder, states that “the Board appreciates Chief Marlar’s willingness to fill this critical position and the Board has the utmost confidence in his experience and leadership ability. Greg is a dedicated professional who is committed to the success of our organization in meeting the needs of our community and stakeholders.”
Chief Marlar will lead Douglas County Fire District No.2 and management of its day-to-day operations until such time as the Board selects a permanent replacement.