​The City of Galveston is proud to announce that Charles Olsen, Sr. is the new Fire Chief.

​The City of Galveston is proud to announce that Charles Olsen, Sr. is the new Fire Chief.
Chief Olsen joined the Galveston Fire Department in 1991 and most recently served as an Assistant Fire Chief. City Manager Brian Maxwell appointed Olsen the interim chief in September after Chief Mike Wisko announced his retirement.
The City Manager selected him for Chief and the Galveston City Council confirmed his appointment last week.
“Chief Olsen has a deep love for Galveston and I am confident he will be a committed and effective leader for the best fire department in Texas,” City Manager Brian Maxwell said.
Chief Olsen was born and raised in Galveston. He worked his way up through the ranks of the department, while also serving on the Galveston Firefighter's Local #571 Executive Board for more than 20 years.
During this time, he served on numerous committees and boards. He also served as the Chairman of both the City's Heath Board and is currently serving on the Galveston Firefighter's Pension Board.
He is currently a member of the Knights of Columbus, the ELKS lodge of Galveston, and also served for many years as Vice President of Island Little League. He is the co-founder of the Galveston Firefighters Children's Parade.
Chief Olsen has received several awards for his service to the department and the community, including the Fire Chief's Award, Firefighter of the Year Award from the Veterans of Foreign War, and Firefighter of the Year from the Rotary Club.
“My priority as the chief is to provide a high level of service to the citizens of Galveston, while also providing a safe and positive working environment for the firefighters who proudly serve this community,” Olsen said.