Celina Fire Chief Joel Lange has confirmed his intention to step down as Fire Chief. Chief Lange, who has served as Celina's Fire Chief since November of 2023, will stay on as a firefighter and paramedic once a successor is named. Lange took over as Fire Chief following the retirement of former Celina Fire Chief Doug Wolters. Here is Chief Lange's official Press Release:

Date: 5/9/25

Ref: Press release

From: Joel Lange

After months of prayer and careful consideration, I have decided to step down as fire chief. This has been a very difficult decision for myself and my wife Brooke. We feel that the season of life we’re in does not permit the required time of the position. Therefore, we feel that it is in the best interest of our family and the department that I step down. The last couple years have not been a cake walk by any means. However, I believe we have made great strides as a department. This is not because of me but the people I worked with. My lieutenants and firefighters were extremely supportive and willing to assist in any way. I plan to remain in this position until the new fire chief is hired. Once the new chief has started, I will be demoted to firefighter/paramedic and will train them to the best of my ability. We will make this transition as smooth as possible and ask for the public’s patience and support during this process.

Thank you,

Joel Lange