City of Independence appoints Interim Fire Chief

The City of Independence is thrilled to announce the appointment of Charles Lauss to Interim Fire Chief of the Independence Fire Department. He will begin in his position immediately.

"Public safety is one of the most important functions of a local government and we take this very seriously,” City Manager Zach Walker said. “Interim Chief Lauss will act as a bridge as we transition into a new leadership chapter for the Independence Fire Department. He will build on the progress made under Chief Short and prepare the department for its next long-term leader. Please join us in welcoming him to our community.”

 Lauss has an extensive history of service and over 20 years of experience. He has served as Fire Chief for several communities, including the City of Urbana, IL., the City of Peoria, IL., and City of Pekin, IL.

Most recently he has served as Lead Instructor for Medcor, Inc., providing hands-on instruction for businesses in the areas of Hazardous Materials First Responder Awareness, Operations and Technician levels, Department of Transportation Hazardous Materials First Responder Awareness, and Incident Command and Leadership.

“As the oldest first department west of the Mississippi, the Independence Fire Department has a storied history of teamwork and connection to the community,” Lauss said. “I could not be more excited to continue that history of community excellence. I look forward to getting to know and working with all the members of this amazing department.”

Lauss received his Chief Fire Officer Certification in 2015 and has completed coursework toward a Doctorate of Education, Organizational Development, and Leadership from Grand Canyon University. He is also a member of the National Fire Protection Association, the Illinois Society of Fire Service Instructors, and the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

Former Independence Fire Department Chief Doug Short retired earlier last month, which led to the opening of this position. He has served as Chief since January 2018.

The City of Independence is conducting a national search to permanently fill the Fire Chief position. Lauss is not a candidate but will serve until the search has been completed.