Jefferson County Fire & EMS is once again searching for new leadership after Interim Chief Kasey Skaar submitted his resignation on October 20, announcing he will leave the department after more than two decades of service. His last day with the district will be December 4.
In a heartfelt letter shared with staff and board members, Skaar made clear the decision did not come easily — but that family, and a new professional chapter, called him forward.
"This was not an easy decision. The fire service has been a significant part of my life for more than two decades, and Jefferson County Fire & EMS will always hold a special place in my heart. However, my family has made many sacrifices throughout my career, and I have reached a point where I need to make them my number one priority."
Skaar will take a position with Portland General Electric following his departure from the district.
A Career Built in Jefferson County
Skaar's 21 years with Jefferson County Fire & EMS spanned multiple roles, from working firefighter through interim chief. In his resignation letter, he gave particular thanks to Captains Mark Johnson and Tom Jaca for the mentorship that shaped him professionally.
"Their mentorship, guidance, and support helped me get to where I am today, and I will always be grateful for the impact they have had on my life and career."
He also acknowledged the Beebee family for their support early in his career, and wrote that the full list of people who helped him along the way "would fill pages."
A Critical Transition Period
Jefferson County Fire & EMS serves a large rural coverage area including Madras, Culver, Metolius, Crooked River Ranch, and surrounding communities. The district now faces the task of initiating a permanent chief search — a process that comes on the heels of one of the most demanding wildfire seasons in state history.
The district's board of directors has not yet announced a timeline for filling the position or named an acting chief to serve during the transition period following Skaar's December 4 departure.
Skaar's tenure included overseeing the department through the 2026 fire season, during which Jefferson County crews responded to hundreds of calls including mutual-aid support during the Bench Fire on the Warm Springs Reservation. Community members seeking updates on department leadership can contact Jefferson County Fire & EMS directly or follow the district on social media.