Bill > SR8602

This resolution honors Steve Brooks, the Fire Chief of Lacey Fire District 3 in Washington state, for his extensive contributions to emergency services. The resolution highlights Brooks' career trajectory from a critical care flight paramedic in Tennessee to becoming Fire Chief in Lacey in 2012, where he served in multiple leadership roles including President of the Thurston County Fire Chiefs and Washington Fire Chiefs President. Throughout his tenure, Brooks was recognized for building collaborative relationships across emergency services, leading Lacey Fire District 3 through the COVID-19 pandemic, and establishing the South Sound Fire Fighter Academy. He received notable achievements including zero findings in financial audits, successfully negotiating collective bargaining agreements, and earning the Distinguished Leader Award from the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce in 2017. The resolution specifically praises Brooks' inspirational leadership, commitment to public safety, and his efforts to improve firefighter health, safety, and labor management relations. Set to retire in March 2025, Brooks is commended as an exemplary public servant whose leadership and dedication have set a new standard for emergency services in Washington state.