By Ali Moreland
The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) has officially launched Holmes County Fire Rescue, establishing a new division focused on enhancing fire protection, emergency response capabilities, and public safety services across Holmes County.
Leading the new organization is Fire Chief Jeff McVay, a veteran fire service professional with more than 30 years of experience. McVay previously served with Walton County Fire Rescue, where he held various leadership roles and was recognized for his commitment to firefighter training, professional development, and public safety initiatives. Following his retirement from Walton County Fire Rescue after three decades of service, McVay accepted the position of Fire Chief for Holmes County Fire Rescue. In a social media post, HCSO said McVay’s “extensive experience and proven leadership make him uniquely qualified to build and guide this new organization.”
According to the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, McVay’s priorities include strengthening fire protection services through expanded training opportunities, firefighter recruitment and retention efforts, pursuing grant funding, improving equipment, and increasing coordination among fire rescue, emergency medical services, emergency management, and law enforcement agencies.
The new department has already begun work on facility improvements. Renovations and remodeling efforts are underway at the Pine Log Fire Station, which are described as the first step in a broader initiative to modernize fire stations throughout Holmes County. Plans call for improvements at stations across each fire district as the department works to enhance facilities and support operational needs.
In a social media post, HCSO said, “Our goal is to create stations that not only serve our firefighters well but also reflect the professionalism and dedication of Holmes County Fire Rescue.” The Pine Log Fire Station renovation project is part of a larger effort to strengthen infrastructure and expand capabilities as Holmes County Fire Rescue continues to develop its operations.
The launch of Holmes County Fire Rescue represents a significant organizational change for the county’s emergency services system, and Holmes County Fire Rescue is expected to continue implementing improvements across the county in the coming months as the department develops its structure, staffing, and service initiatives under McVay’s leadership.
Staff Report 