Richland fire chief is stepping down. His replacement is a familiar face
Richland’s fire chief plans to retire after more than a decade leading the 82-person department.
Tom Huntington announced plans to leave his post heading the city’s firefighting and ambulance service at the end of the year. The 30-year veteran of the department has held the position for 11 years.
“Chief Huntington’s three-decade career with the city of Richland has been defined by his visionary leadership, commitment to employee development, regional partnerships and a culture that puts the community first,” city officials said in a news release announcing the change.
Huntington’s leadership led to training 55,000 people in hands-only CPR. The city now has one of the best cardiac arrest survival rates in the nation.
Three new fire stations and one replacement station have opened during his tenure.
He did this while navigating a large number of retiring firefighters.
The Washington Fire Chiefs Association awarded Huntington with the Dan Packer Chief of the Year Award this year. The prize recognizes exceptional leadership, professionalism and service.
“Chief Huntington’s vision and service have left a lasting impact on our community and set a high standard for the department’s mission to protect and enhance the quality of life,” City Manager Jon Amundson said.
Next Richland Fire Department leader
Huntington also planned well for the future, officials said. This included helping to get the next person ready to take over the department.
Deputy Chief Randy Aust will step into the chief’s role starting on Jan. 1. Aust was instrumental in the department’s 25-year plan for new stations, helped with strategic planning efforts and supported efforts to battle some of the largest fires in the area such as the fires in the Yakima River Delta and on Bateman Island.
“We ... look forward to Chief Aust carrying forward the vision of Richland Fire and Emergency Services — service above all — as he leads with integrity, excellence, and continued commitment to public safety for Richland,” Amundson said in the release.