Lakewood, CO — West Metro Fire Rescue will mark a pivotal moment in the district’s history on Friday, August 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., as Deputy Chief Jeremy Metz is formally installed as the new Fire Chief. Metz is succeeding Chief Don Lombardi, who is retiring after 14 years in the role and more than 33 years in the fire service.

Metz’s appointment comes after a rigorous internal selection process conducted by the West Metro Board of Directors. His deep operational knowledge, visionary leadership, and long-standing commitment to firefighter safety and innovation made him the clear choice to lead the district into its next chapter.

“Chief Metz is the right leader for this moment in our history,” said Bill Clayton, President of the West Metro Fire Board of Directors. “He brings a wealth of experience, a passion for serving our communities, and a vision for advancing firefighter wellness, and public safety.”

Chief Metz began his career in 1992 with the Colorado Air National Guard as a firefighter/EMT and joined West Metro in 1998. In addition to his operational expertise, Metz has led national and international initiatives focused on firefighter safety. He is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer program and the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ (IAFC) Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) program.

“It is an incredible honor to be chosen as Fire Chief,” said Metz. “I’ve grown with this organization, and I’m committed to building on our success, ensuring we remain at the forefront of fire service innovation, and that our firefighters have the tools and support they need to protect the communities we serve.”

The August ceremony will also celebrate the legacy of outgoing Chief Don Lombardi, who is retiring after an extraordinary career of public service. Under his leadership, West Metro achieved international accreditation and a prestigious ISO Class 1 rating, benefiting property owners across the district and improving community resilience.

Lombardi also championed programs to improve firefighter health and safety and co-authored state legislation to support first responders facing cancer, cardiac events, and behavioral health challenges.

“It has been an honor to work alongside the dedicated firefighters and staff of West Metro,” said Lombardi. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and confident in Chief Metz’s ability to lead this district into the future.”

The Change of Command Ceremony marks not only a transition of leadership but a reaffirmation of West Metro’s mission: protecting lives, property, and the well-being of its residents and personnel. Chief Metz will officially assume command on August 1, 2025.