Jeff Van Lierop Appointed As Palm Springs Interim Fire Chief

PALM SPRINGS, CA — Palm Springs Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Van Lierop has been appointed interim fire chief, City Manager Scott Stiles announced Monday.

Van Lierop, a nearly 25-year veteran of the Palm Springs Fire Department, succeeds Fire Chief Paul Alvarado, who is retiring after a 35-year career in the fire service.

Van Lierop joined the department as a firefighter in 2002 and steadily rose through the ranks, serving as fire engineer, fire captain, battalion chief, and deputy fire chief.

"Jeff Van Lierop is a highly respected leader who has dedicated nearly 25 years of his career to protecting the Palm Springs community," Stiles said in a statement. "His extensive operational experience, strong relationships within the department and throughout the region, as well as deep commitment to the safety and well-being of our residents and firefighters make him exceptionally well-qualified to lead the department during this transition."

During his tenure, Van Lierop helped establish a Joint Apprenticeship Committee to align department training with statewide standards, and he assisted in launching the agency's Peer Support and Wellness Program. He has also served as a state-certified firefighting instructor for two decades.

Among his field assignments, Van Lierop was part of the emergency response team that rescued several elderly passengers following a fatal tour bus crash on Interstate 10 in 2016.

"It has been an honor and privilege to serve the Palm Springs community for nearly 25 years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this exceptional department as interim fire chief," Van Lierop said. "My priority will be to support our personnel, maintain operational excellence, and ensure a seamless transition."

As interim chief, Van Lierop will direct the department's fire suppression, emergency medical services, prevention bureau, and disaster response operations.