Abbott names Cedar Park fire chief to Texas Commission on Fire Protection

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Cedar Park's fire chief will now to get to help enforce statewide fire services after he was appointed to the Texas Commission on Fire Protection by Gov. Greg Abbott, the city of Cedar Park said in a news release Thursday.

Cedar Park Fire Chief James Mallinger is part of the commission that "will help shape and uphold statewide fire service standards while offering guidance and support to fire departments across Texas, reinforcing his longstanding dedication to advancing fire safety and professional excellence," the city said in the release. The term is set to expire Feb. 1, 2029.

"Chief James Mallinger began his fire service career as a volunteer in 1989, joining the Cedar Park Fire Department in 1996. Over nearly three decades, he has risen through the ranks—from Firefighter to Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Chief, and ultimately Fire Chief in 2012, following two interim appointments. He also served six years as the City’s Emergency Management Coordinator," the city said.

Mallinger currently leads a department with 92 firefighters and four civilian staff members. He also oversees a $16.8 million annual budget, according to the city. He was also nationally recognized as a "certified Fire Service Chief Executive Officer, Executive Fire Officer, and Chief Fire Officer."

Mallinger has degrees from Texas State University, as well as credentials from Austin Community College and Texas A&M's Recruit Fire School, the release said.

"Active in professional leadership, he serves as Vice President of the Capital Area Fire Chiefs Association, a past president and member of the Williamson County and Texas Fire Chiefs Associations, and sits on advisory boards for fire programs at Austin Community College and Texas State University," the city said.