Coeur d’Alene Fire Chief Thomas Greif Retires After 29 Years of Service in Idaho
COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — Coeur d’Alene Fire Chief Thomas Greif officially retired Friday after 29 years with the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, closing out a career that took him from rookie firefighter to the department’s top leadership role. Greif announced his retirement in a statement Thursday, expressing deep gratitude for the North Idaho community he has served since 1997.
A Career Rooted in Coeur d’Alene
Greif joined the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department as a young firefighter in 1997 and spent nearly three decades rising through the ranks before serving as fire chief for the past four years. His tenure represents a long arc of dedication to public safety in Kootenai County — one that spanned significant growth in the region and increasing demands on emergency services.
“Serving the residents and guests of Coeur d’Alene has been the greatest honor of my professional life,” Greif said in his retirement statement. “This city welcomed me as a young firefighter back in 1997 and allowed me the privilege of growing, learning, and ultimately leading an extraordinary group of men and women who dedicate their lives to serving others.”
Greif credited the strength of the department to a culture of teamwork and collaboration that extended well beyond the firehouse. He highlighted strong working relationships with law enforcement, neighboring fire departments, healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations, and local businesses as key pillars of Coeur d’Alene’s public safety infrastructure.
Community Support and the 2025 Bond Measure
One of the highlights Greif noted in his departure statement was the community’s approval of the 2025 General Obligation Bond, which directed $16 million toward updating facilities and resources for the city’s emergency responders. For Greif, that vote reflected the kind of civic investment that directly strengthens the department’s ability to protect residents.
“Your support has strengthened our department and ensured we can continue delivering the high level of service this community deserves,” Greif said.
The bond measure represents a significant commitment by Coeur d’Alene taxpayers to the long-term sustainability of emergency response infrastructure — a priority that Greif championed during his time as chief. The upgraded facilities and resources funded through that measure are expected to benefit the department and the broader Kootenai County region for years to come.
Impact on Coeur d’Alene and Kootenai County Residents
Greif’s retirement marks a significant leadership transition for one of North Idaho’s most visible public safety departments. The Coeur d’Alene Fire Department serves a rapidly growing community along the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene, responding not only to fires but to medical emergencies, accidents, and other crises throughout the area.
Leadership continuity will be essential as the department moves forward. Jon Fugitt has accepted the position of new Coeur d’Alene Fire Chief, stepping into the role as Greif officially steps down. The transition is expected to maintain the department’s operational focus as it enters the next phase of its development.
Greif made clear that while his official duties are behind him, he is not leaving the community he has spent nearly three decades protecting. “Although I am retiring from my role as Fire Chief, I am not stepping away from this community as Kootenai County is our home,” Greif said. “I look forward to spending more time with my family, staying connected to community partners, and continuing to support the people and organizations that make this community such a great place to live.”
What Comes Next
With Greif’s retirement now official, the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department transitions under new leadership as the city continues to grow and demand for emergency services increases across the Panhandle region. The $16 million in bond-funded improvements to emergency responder facilities will play a central role in that next chapter.
Residents interested in following developments within the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department or other Kootenai County public safety updates can monitor local government announcements through the City of Coeur d’Alene’s official channels. For broader Idaho public safety coverage, visit Idaho News.
Chief Greif’s 29-year career stands as a testament to the value of long-term, community-rooted public service — and to the men and women of the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department who serve alongside him every day.