Erin Hut, ehut@spokanecity.org
Monday, August 25, 2025 at 2:29 p.m.
After nearly four decades in the fire service, Spokane Fire Chief Julie O’Berg has announced her plans to retire in October. Mayor Lisa Brown has named current Assistant Chief Tom Williams as the next Fire Chief, ensuring a smooth transition in leadership for the department.
Over her 36 year career in the fire service, O’Berg has served in a wide range of roles from firefighter/paramedic to chief, leading teams, responding to emergencies, and shaping training and operations in both Kansas and Washington.
O’Berg joined the Spokane Fire Department in 2020 as Deputy Chief of Operations and originally intended to retire at the end of 2023. She instead agreed to serve as Interim Fire Chief at the beginning of the Brown Administration and permanently moved into the role in April 2024, becoming the first woman to ever lead the department.
O’Berg’s final day with Spokane Fire will be October 6. Assistant Chief Williams will begin as Chief, effective October 7.
Williams has served as Assistant Fire Chief for the department since June 2020. Prior to his time in Spokane, he spent 30 years in various fire service roles in Oregon. Much of his career was spent with Portland Fire and Rescue, where he served as Battalion Chief, Division Chief, and Deputy Chief.
In addition to his command experience, Williams served 20 years as a tactical medic with the Portland Police Bureau and worked as a part-time flight paramedic with Air Life. He is a graduate of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute and currently serves as an active board member of the Washington Fire Chiefs.
“The fire service has given me purpose, lifelong friendships, and the honor of serving something greater than myself. Spokane’s strength lies in the dedication of its public servants to the community we serve. I want to thank Mayor Brown, my executive team, and the members of this department for their trust, professionalism, and dedication. I am excited to see the department’s continued success, and no matter where I am, I will be cheering you on from the sidelines with pride,” Chief O’Berg said.
“While I am sad to see Chief O’Berg go, she has absolutely earned her retirement. She has been a dedicated public servant and a tremendous leader, guiding the Spokane Fire Department through a significant time of transition. Her impact will be felt for years to come,” Mayor Brown said. “I have full confidence in incoming Chief Williams, who brings a deep commitment to the department and the community. His experience and steady leadership will continue building on the strong foundation that has been laid.”
“I am honored to lead the Spokane Fire Department following the retirement of Chief O’Berg. While I am saddened to see her step down, I am deeply grateful for the time we worked together. She is truly one of the finest Fire Chiefs I have ever had the privilege to serve alongside,” Incoming Chief Williams said. “I am grateful to Mayor Brown for the opportunity to continue serving the Spokane community and to lead such a dedicated, skilled, and professional department.”
