District 16 Update From Your Fire Chief

From the Desk of the Fire Chief

•           The District recently completed a lateral hiring process and has extended a conditional offer to a firefighter from a King County department. Lateral hires are experienced firefighters who are already serving in full-time fire agencies. Because they are fully trained, we do not need to send them through a fire academy, allowing them to contribute to operations much sooner than an entry-level recruit.

•           We have recently reorganized our downstairs administrative team and restructured two positions. While you may notice a few new faces, we remain committed to providing the same high level of customer service in our lobby and over the phone.

•           We have received several questions about the former Callahan restaurant property and the pending sale. At this time, there are no significant updates beyond what has been shared at recent Board meetings. The septic system drain field has passed testing and is functioning properly. A local septic company is continuing repairs to the tank. The sale remains pending and is contingent upon completion of those repairs.

•           The Board of Fire Commissioners recently approved the purchase of a new fire engine in 2026 and has indicated its intent to purchase another in 2027. This investment will help us replace two engines that have reached the end of their service life as front-line apparatus, ensuring our firefighters have safe, reliable equipment to serve the Key Peninsula community.

Public safety is a team effort. We are grateful for the continued support of this community and remain committed to being ready, responsive, and here for you every day.

Nick Swinhart, Fire Chief

Key Peninsula Fire Department