Pullman honors retiring Fire Chief Mike Heston and confirms Brett Nash as new fire chief

The Pullman City Council recognized Fire Chief Mike Heston at its Jan. 28 meeting ahead of his retirement, and later confirmed Brett Nash as the next Pullman fire chief.

Mayor Benjamin read a proclamation thanking Heston for his service, noting Heston was hired by the City of Pullman on Oct. 9, 1996 and that he has 43 years of service in fire departments including earlier work with Washington State University-area departments. The proclamation invited the public to an event at Fire Station 1 at 10 a.m. on Feb. 7 to mark Heston’s retirement.

Mike Heston addressed the council and said, “It's been a privilege and an honor all these years. Thank you for the support from city council every year for the fire department. It's been outstanding and all the memories and friendships I won't forget.” He said he will remain active in the community but is “learning how to say no.”

Shortly before the meeting’s consent and regular agenda actions, the council considered and voted to confirm the appointment of Brett Nash as Pullman’s new fire chief. Council members who served on the interview panel spoke in support of Nash’s appointment; Nash and his wife are relocating from Nevada and are expected to attend the next council meeting for his swearing-in.

Why it matters: A confirmed chief affects departmental leadership, emergency-response oversight and ongoing relations with regional fire partners; the council’s confirmation begins the administrative onboarding process for Nash.

What was decided

- The council adopted an official expression of appreciation for Mike Heston and announced a retirement event scheduled for Feb. 7 at Fire Station 1.

- The council voted to confirm Brett Nash as fire chief; Nash will be sworn in at the next council meeting once relocation is complete.

Implementation notes

Council members and staff said they look forward to Nash’s arrival and plan to complete onboarding and scheduling for the formal swearing-in. No implementing personnel agreements or start dates beyond the planned swearing-in were specified in the meeting transcript.

Ending

Council members and staff thanked Heston for decades of service and said they anticipate a smooth transition once Nash completes relocation and takes the oath.