Joco Today

City Manager Lori Curtis Luther named Alan Long as the new Overland Park Fire Department chief after a competitive recruitment process involving internal and external applicants.

“Alan has a deep understanding of the essential work of the fire service. His leadership skills complement our executive leadership team incredibly well,” Luther said. “I am looking forward to working with him even more while we continue to ensure Overland Park neighborhoods are safe and healthy for everyone.”

Long recently served as interim chief and has served Overland Park as deputy chief in the Fire Department since 2019. He started with the department in 1999 and has held previous leadership roles as a battalion chief, captain, lieutenant and training instructor.

“It is an honor to be selected to lead such a distinguished organization, filled with dedicated people,” said Long. “I look forward to continuing our mission to serve Overland Park, Merriam and southern Johnson County and take seriously our charge to maintain the public’s trust.”

Long holds a Master of Arts degree in Human Resource Management and Business Administration, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Adult Education, and an Associates Degree in Fire Administration. Long is a graduate of Johnson County Community College’s Emergency Medical Science program and the Executive Fire Officer program from the National Fire Academy. He is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs and is a Center for Public Safety Excellence-designated Chief Fire Officer, Chief Emergency Medical Officer, and Chief Training Officer. He is involved in Johnson County and Kansas City area fire and emergency services committees.

Long replaces former Fire Chief Bryan Dehner, who retired in March after 29 years of service to the community.

Original source can be found here.