Steven Westermann, fire chief for Central Jackson County Fire Protection District
1 What’s new at the Central Jackson County Fire Protection District? The biggest news is that we are being recommended for accreditation. At this moment there are only 160 departments out of 33,000 across the country that has reached this pinnacle. Our organization is extremely proud of that achievement.
2 What does CJC plan for the future in regards to facilities and services? Based on the growth of the last several years, our need will be in the northeast corner of our district. Grain Valley has seen a 300 percent growth in the last 15 years. Thanks to the Grain Valley School District, we have land set aside for a new station, probably in the next 5 years.
3 How long have you been in your current position and what is your overall experience at CJC? I started my career with CJC as a volunteer in 1972. This is my 20th year as chief of CJC and to see the growth of the organization, not just in size, but in response capabilities for the community and the quality of people that we attract is extremely fulfilling.
4 What major changes in the organization have you seen in 20 years as chief? Several come to mind. Going from volunteer to career, the demands that population growth has placed on the organization, the partnership that we have with the labor force, the continued strong support that we have in the community, and changing from a training ground for other departments to an employee workplace of choice in the metro area are some of the most noteworthy.
