INDIANOLA, Iowa — Indianola Fire Chief Greg Chia will retire at the end of the year, the city of Indianola said Friday.
"I could not have designed and experienced a better career, seeing all the positive developments that make our communities safe," Chia said in a statement. "Working as the Indianola Fire Chief has been an incredible experience that has allowed me to develop numerous skills and serve the community with devotion."
Chia joined the Indianola Fire Department as chief in May 2015 and has stayed in the role for nearly 10 years.
"Chief Chia’s exceptional leadership has propelled the department forward, making significant strides in not only enhanced emergency protocols, preparedness and responsiveness but also a supportive culture of camaraderie and excellence," said Indianola City Manager Benjamin Reeves in a statement. "I sincerely appreciate Chief Chia’s tireless work ethic to strengthening the services that impact the quality of life in Indianola, and the City of Indianola is grateful for his service."
Chia began his career as a firefighter in 1985 with the Des Moines Fire Department. He worked in Des Moines for 30 years, working his way up the ranks to chief officer.
Previously, Chia worked with the State of Iowa Type 3 Incident Management Team, working through disasters such as the 1993 floods and the 2008 Parkersburg tornado.
Although Chia will leave the department at the end of the year, he said he is grateful to the department for their support through the years.
“You allowed me to be the chief I wanted to be – a chief officer who elevates success and celebrates the results of your professionalism and dedication," he said in a statement. "I will always be your biggest supporter and look forward to the evolution of this department.”
Chia's final day with the department is Dec. 31, 2024. The search for Indianola's next fire chief will begin in July.
