HIGH SPRINGS FIRE DEPARTMENT SELECTS NEW CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT

News Release Date
04-16-2024
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Photo of new fire chief wearing suit and tie.

HIGH SPRINGS, FLA- The High Springs Fire Department is pleased to announce the appointment of Joseph Peters as the new Fire Chief, effective May 6th, 2024. With an extensive background in the fire service and a passion for community safety, Chief Peters brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role. 

Chief Peters has dedicated 30 years to serving the public in various capacities within the fire department, including 14 years with the Mount Dora Fire Department, where Peters rose to the rank of Captain, and seven years with The Villages Public Safety, as a Lieutenant. More recently, Peters served as Chief in Ford City, PA before relocating back to Florida, where he currently works as Training Coordinator of the Havana Volunteer Fire Department, and Life Support Educator at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare.   

"It is an honor to be chosen as the next Fire Chief of High Springs," said Chief Peters. "I am privileged to be part of a very talented and dedicated team and look forward to becoming part of the High Springs community." 

Throughout his career, Chief Peters has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, strategic vision, and a dedication to professional development. His expertise in emergency response protocols, community outreach initiatives, and personnel management will be invaluable assets as he assumes his new role.

"The City of High Springs is very excited about the appointment of Chief Peters." said City Manager Jeremy Marshall. "Chief Peters comes with a vast set of skills and experience that will greatly contribute to the success of the department."

Peters succeeds former Fire Chief Bruce Gillingham who retired after decades of dedicated service to the High Springs community. The department expresses its sincere gratitude to Chief Gillingham for his leadership and contributions over the years.

The High Springs Fire Department is confident that under Chief Peters' guidance, it will continue to uphold its reputation as a premier emergency response agency, dedicated to serving and protecting the community with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.

For more information, contact Public Information Officer Kevin Mangan at 352-681-1907 or kmangan [at] highsprings.gov