Palm Springs Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Van Lierop was appointed interim fire chief and will take over when current chief Paul Alvarado retires on Nov. 2, it was announced Monday.
“Jeff Van Lierop is a highly respected leader who has dedicated nearly 25 years of his career to protecting the Palm Spring community,” City Manger Scott Stiles said in a statement. “His extensive operational experience, strong relationships within the department and throughout the region, as well as deep commitment to the safety and well-being of our residents and firefighters make him exceptionally well-qualified to lead the department during this transition.”
Van Lierop has been with the Palm Springs Fire Department since 2002 and has served in numerous capacities, including as fire engineer, fire captain, battalion chief and deputy fire chief.
Throughout his career, he established a joint apprenticeship committee ensuring firefighters receive training consistent with statewide standards and procedures, helped implement a wellness program that supports the mental and physical well-being of firefighters and has served as a statewide certified firefighter instructor for the past 20 years, city officials said.
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve the Palm Springs community for nearly 25 years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this exceptional department as interim fire chief,” Van Lierop said.
Alvarado announced his retirement earlier this month.