Benton County Fire District 4 Selects New Fire Chief

Chief Carlyle Has 21 Years with the Agency

Benton County Fire District 4 has appointed Deputy Chief Paul Carlyle as its next fire chief. The appointment will take effect on October 1. Carlyle will replace Chief Bill Whealan who served residents and businesses in West Richland for nine years.

“We appreciate Chief Whealan’s service to our community, and welcome Chief Carlyle to the position,” said Commissioner Gregg Couch, who chairs the Board of Fire Commissioners. “Chief Carlyle knows the organization and will ensure a seamless transition.”

Chief Carlyle was appointed deputy chief in June. He started his career with Benton County Fire District 4 as a volunteer firefighter in 1999 and was hired full-time in 2006. Since that time, he was promoted to the positions of lieutenant (2007), and captain and emergency medical services officer (2013).

Chief Carlyle attended Columbia Basin College for Fire Science and Emergency Medical Technician. He’s also a graduate of the National Fire Academy in incident management and advanced leadership issues in emergency medical services. He also has advanced certifications in hazardous materials training and wildland fire management, trainings and incident command.

“I started my career in emergency services with Benton County Fire District 4. My skills and training are a direct result of support from our community,” said Chief Paul Carlyle. “I’m grateful to be able to give back in this position and continue to be part of an organization that is so committed to public service.”