Town of Florence Announces Interim Fire Department Leadership

FLORENCE, AZ – The Town of Florence has announced an interim leadership plan for the Florence Fire Department as the recruitment process for the Town’s next permanent Fire Chief continues.

Effective July 20, 2026, David Strayer will return to the Town to serve as Interim Fire Chief. Strayer previously served as Florence Fire Chief and brings more than 40 years of fire service leadership experience spanning emergency operations, incident management, firefighter training, and executive leadership.

“We’re grateful that Chief Strayer has agreed to return and help lead the department during this transition,” said Deputy Town Manager & Clerk Lisa Garcia. “His familiarity with our community and proven leadership will provide stability and continuity while we complete the recruitment process for the Town’s next permanent Fire Chief.”

During his previous tenure with the Town, Strayer led significant organizational improvements, including modernizing department operations, updating policies, implementing long-range planning initiatives, and improving the Town’s ISO Public Protection Classification to a Class 3 rating. He has also served in leadership roles with Avondale Fire Rescue and the Casa Grande Fire Department and has instructed for the National Fire Academy, FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute, and other fire service organizations.

“I appreciate the opportunity to return and serve the Florence community once again,” said Strayer. “The Florence Fire Department has a strong team of dedicated professionals, and I’m looking forward to supporting them during this transition while continuing to provide the high level of service our residents expect.”

To support the transition, Battalion Chief Corey Pine will continue serving in a temporary Interim Assistant Chief role, providing continuity and institutional knowledge while assisting Chief Strayer with day-to-day department operations.

The Town’s recruitment for a permanent Fire Chief remains underway. Applications are currently being accepted, with the first review of candidates scheduled for August 3, 2026.