Mayor Andrea Davis has appointed Chief Lonnie Rash as the new chief of the Missoula Fire Department, pending City Council confirmation. Rash is set to begin his role the week of July 7, following Chief Gordy Hughes’ retirement on June 30. Mayor Davis expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment, stating, โIโm thrilled to welcome Chief Rash to the City and community of Missoula as our next Fire Chief. His proven leadership, innovative approach, and deep commitment to public service make him a strong fit for this role.” Chief Rash has been with Spokane County Fire District 8 since 2020 and brings over 25 years of fire service experience. His leadership experience includes managing a $6.3 million fire station development in Spokane Valley. Rash, a Montana native who grew up in Bozeman, shared his excitement, saying, โWhat excites me most about this opportunity is how closely Missoulaโs Fireโs priorities align with my personal values and leadership philosophy.โ
