Palm Springs names Jeff Van Lierop Interim Fire Chief

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ)— Palm Springs Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Van Lierop has been appointed interim fire chief, City Manager Scott Stiles announced. He will succeed Paul Alvarado, who is retiring after 35 years in the fire service.

Van Lierop joined the department in 2002 and has served as a fire engineer, fire captain, battalion chief and deputy fire chief. His career includes overseeing complex emergency responses, advancing firefighter training and supporting employee wellness initiatives.

He helped establish a Joint Apprenticeship Committee to strengthen firefighter training standards and implement the department’s Peer Support and Wellness Program. He has also served as a state-certified firefighting instructor for 20 years. In 2016, he helped rescue elderly passengers following a serious bus crash on Interstate 10.

“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, expressing confidence in Van Lierop’s ability to lead the department through the transition.

As interim chief, Van Lierop will oversee fire suppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention and emergency response operations.

Van Lierop thanked city leadership for its confidence in him, saying his priorities will be "supporting firefighters, maintaining operational excellence and ensuring a smooth transition while continuing to serve Palm Springs residents and visitors."