After Nearly Four Decades, Summits Fire Chief Is Retiring - Patch
Maria Torres · Union County Life
When Eric Evers arrived at the Summit Fire Department in 1987, he was a volunteer with a commitment. Thirty-eight years later, on July 2, he retired as fire chief, leaving behind a legacy defined by the people he served alongside and a building designed to protect the next generation of firefighters.
His journey through Summit's ranks tells a story of steady, quiet leadership. Evers started as a volunteer, became a career firefighter in 1990, and advanced through positions that required trust: lieutenant, battalion chief, deputy chief, fire official. When he was named chief in 2015, Union County Life was covering a community in transition — and Evers would shape that moment with two clear priorities: making sure the department was staffed to respond, and ensuring the facility where firefighters worked protected their health.
The new fire station that opened in 2024 reflects both. Evers helped design a building that answers a worry every firefighter carries home: exposure to hazardous materials. The decontamination equipment isn't flashy, but it means something to the people who use it every day.
"Behind every decision during my time as chief was the goal to increase resident and firefighter safety, while continuing to serve the community with bravery, dedication, and professionalism," Evers said.
Colleagues and neighbors took notice. Mayor Elizabeth Fagan acknowledged what Evers' departure means: "His dedication to fire safety and professional excellence leave a lasting legacy. City staff and residents have benefitted greatly from his exemplary leadership as chief, and his impact on our city will be felt for years to come."
Over 11 years as chief, Evers worked with the Summit Police Department, the Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad, and regional agencies to coordinate emergency response — the kind of behind-the-scenes collaboration that makes a community function. Now, as the city develops a succession plan, his influence remains in the building he helped create and the culture he built. The next fire chief is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Find more Summit news, community updates, and local leadership stories on Union County Life.
FAQ
When did Fire Chief Eric Evers retire?
Eric Evers retired on July 2, 2026, after 38 years with the Summit Fire Department.
How long did Eric Evers serve as fire chief?
Evers served as fire chief for 11 years, starting in 2015 and retiring in July 2026. He joined the department as a volunteer in 1987 and advanced through every rank.
What was Eric Evers' biggest contribution to Summit?
Evers prioritized staffing levels and led the design and completion of a new state-of-the-art fire station that opened in 2024. The facility features decontamination equipment intended to protect the long-term health of firefighters.
Who will be the next fire chief?
The city is developing a succession plan. An announcement is expected in the coming weeks.
How did Eric Evers work with other Summit departments?
Throughout his career, Evers collaborated with the Summit Police Department, the Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad, and regional agencies on emergency response coordination and fire operation.
