Fire chief search down to three
BOB KIRKPATRICK | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 day, 5 hours AGO
Jake Bieker, Jon Fugitt and Kristan Maurer are the three finalists the city of Coeur d'Alene will choose between to replace outgoing Fire Chief Tom Greif, who is retiring April 16 after nearly 30 years of service.
City officials sifted 34 applicants to nine after initial interviews Feb. 13. The interviews for the three finalists, chosen for their work experience, professional accomplishments and commitment to community service, are scheduled March 5.
Bieker is currently serving as a captain with the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, bringing more than 23 years of industry experience. In 2025, he was named Local 710 Union Firefighter of the Year.
Fugitt is currently serving as deputy chief-administrator/fire marshal of the Fullerton Fire Department in Fullerton, Calif. He has 25 years of experience advancing through the ranks from firefighter to paramedic, engineer, captain, battalion chief and deputy chief. According to govsalaries.com, Fugitt earned $426,672 in 2023, which includes overtime and benefits.
Maurer has more than 25 years of fire service experience. In 2020, she became the first woman to serve as fire chief for Clark County Fire District 6 and was only the second woman in Washington State history to hold that position.
Interim City Administrator Ron Jacobson said in Monday press release that, “Each of these candidates brings a great amount of fire experience and a deep commitment to public safety.”
The Coeur d'Alene fire chief job is advertised at a pay range of $127,732 to $179,753.
Jon Fugitt
Kristan MaurerARTICLES BY BOB KIRKPATRICK
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Fire chief search down to three
Jake Bieker, Jon Fugitt and Kristan Maurer are the three finalists the city of Coeur d'Alene will choose between to replace outgoing Fire Chief Tom Greif, who is retiring on April 16 after nearly 30 years of service to the community.
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