Topeka fire chief set to retire in 2025

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Topeka’s fire chief is due to retire after spending 30 years in service to the community.

The City of Topeka announced in a press release on July 11 that Fire Chief Randy Phillips will have his final day on Dec. 22, 2025. Phillips has worked in a variety of roles over his years of service including as a captain, battalion chief, interim deputy chief and deputy chief of the Topeka Fire Department (TFD). He was named the new fire chief back in 2022.

“On behalf of the City of Topeka, I want to congratulate Chief Randy Phillips on his well-earned retirement,” said City Manager Dr. Robert Perez. “His years of dedicated service to our community have made a lasting impact, and we are grateful for his leadership and commitment. We wish him all the best as he begins this new chapter and hope his retirement is filled with happiness, health, and well deserved family time.”

Phillips will transition from his position on Aug. 4 but will continue to help the Topeka Fire Team as they bring in his replacement. The City of Topeka will share additional information in the near future regarding its search process for a new fire chief.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to have had the opportunity to lead this organization,” Phillips said. “The men and women of the Topeka Fire Department are second to none and I would not trade the last 30 years for anything. This is truly the best job in the world. I’m extremely proud of what we have accomplished as a department during my tenure as Chief, but now it’s time for me to focus on my family and enjoy retirement.”

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