The Ocean Shores Fire Department recognized Brian Ritter as the new fire chief on Monday night, going from an interim role to a permanent one.
Ritter is hardly a new face for the department; coming up from the ranks, he’s a nearly two-decade veteran who’s seen the seaside department grow and change.
“It feels amazing,” Ritter said. “I’ll be the only one in the history of our organization that has tested from the bottom to the top so far.”
Beginning his career in Snohomish County in 1998, Ritter came to Ocean Shores in 2004, working through the ranks up to assistant chief, before taking the interim chief position with the retirement of Chief Mike Thurier several months ago. Now, he’s taking the last step up — Ritter said he hopes it shows
“We’re really excited that we were able to give someone internally that has given their life to the Ocean Shores Fire Department and improving it,” said City Administrator Scott Andersen.
The city also hired Mike Mandella as assistant fire chief, formerly fire chief of the Port of Seattle Fire Department.
“Personally, this is the best of all worlds. I have a great fire chief that came from within and I have a great assistant fire chief that came from outside with great experience,” said Mayor Jon Martin. “I’ve got someone that understands the history. That’s always a challenge when someone comes in from the outside.”
Plans for the future
While Ritter said he initially planned to lateral back East after gaining some experience in a more rural operating environment, his plans changed.
“When I was hired out here in ‘04, I was trying to get some good rural experience as a paramedic,” Ritter said. “I felt like I could help build the fire department I always wanted to work for.”
Ocean Shores is experiencing a period of growth as more and more flock to the coast. With that expansion comes a time of opportunity for the department, Ritter said.
“This is all just part of the next chapter. It all comes from the people who came before me,” Ritter said. “I will say I’ve never really felt more supported. I think we’re set up for success.”
The department is getting new equipment to stay abreast of requirements as well as working to bring in new firefighters, Ritter said.
“While I’m talking to you on the phone we’re doing testing,” Ritter said. “I think it’s testament to the culture we have in our house. Guys and gals are excited.”
New firefighters to carry the department forward are a big priority for him, Ritter said.
“We’re going to be onboarding new members into the department. It’s reestablishing the healthy culture,” Ritter said. “We’re only as good as our team.”
Ritter said he’s grateful for the positive feedback and is excited to take the department forward.
“I just look forward to the future of the Ocean Shores Fire Department,” Ritter said. “I appreciate all the support I’ve gotten from the community of Ocean Shores and Grays Harbor County.”
Contact Senior Reporter Michael S. Lockett at 757-621-1197 or mlockett@thedailyworld.com.
Capt. Corey Kuhl, left, president of Ocean Shores Professional Fire Fighters Local 2109, presents newly confirmed Ocean Shores Fire Chief Brian Ritter, center, with an axe during a city council meeting on Monday. (Courtesy photo / OSFD)
