A message to Coeur d'Alene from Fire Chief Tom Greif

After 29 years of service with the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and the last four as your fire chief, I will be retiring effective April 17, 2026. As I close this chapter, I want to speak directly to the community that has meant so much to me throughout my career.

Serving the residents and guests of Coeur d’Alene has been the greatest honor of my professional life. This city welcomed me as a young firefighter back in 1997. It allowed me the privilege of growing, learning, and ultimately leading an extraordinary group of men and women who dedicate their lives to serving others. I am deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in our department year after year.

To our residents: thank you for your unwavering support. Whether through a wave as we drive by, a kind word at the grocery store or your overwhelming approval of the 2025 General Obligation Bond, you have consistently shown that you value public safety and the people who provide it. Your support has strengthened our department and ensured that we can continue to deliver the high level of service this community deserves.

To our community partners, law enforcement, neighboring fire departments, healthcare providers, nonprofits and local businesses, thank you for your collaboration and support. Our ability to serve effectively has always depended on strong partnerships, and I am proud of the relationships we have built together. This community is a safe place to live and visit because of the teamwork that exists across this region.

Although I am retiring from my role as fire chief, I am not stepping away from this community, as Kootenai County is our home. I look forward to spending more time with my family, staying connected to community partners and continuing to support the people and organizations that make this community such a great place to live.

Thank you, Coeur d’Alene, for nearly three decades of trust, partnership and shared values. I leave with gratitude, pride and confidence in the future of this department and this community.

With sincere honor and appreciation,

Thomas Greif

Fire Chief- CDAFD