Bowling Green fire chief announces retirement

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – After over 25 years serving the Bowling Green community in the fire service, Bowling Green Fire Chief Jason Colson is stepping down with plans to pursue a new career.

His colleagues describe him as family-oriented, sincere and a mentor.

Deputy Chief Rob Gilliam says Colson’s departure will leave a big hole in the department.

“All of those things make him a great leader and someone that is very easy to be around and learn how the fire service should operate,” said Gilliam.

Colson has been the chief for the past five years.

In those five years, during his leadership, the BGFD has had quite a few accomplishments.

Just last year, the department was awarded a Class 1 ISO insurance rating.

“There are only about 100 departments in the country that are accredited ISO Class 1, so that was a nice moment. But all those things were accomplished through the efforts of the entire department and not just me individually, obviously,” said Colson.

Also, under Colson’s leadership, an entire new station was built and grant money was received in order to staff that new station, which is set to open early next month.

“He has always been a great mentor and just kind of, showed me all the ropes and helped me progress to the next level and so I owe a lot to him as far as that goes,” said Gilliam.

Taking steps into a new profession, Colson is taking a position as a regional account manager for a fire equipment company but will remain in the area.

“I love Bowling Green, love Warren County. My kids go to school here. My family lives here so this is, this is home for me,” said Colson.

The process for hiring a new chief is underway.