Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has announced appointments to the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. James Mallinger will join the commission with a term ending on February 1, 2029. John Ortega has been appointed, and Sue De Villez, Paul Hamilton, and Brandon Wade have been reappointed, each with terms concluding on February 1, 2031. Michael Glynn, Jr. has been designated as chair of the Commission. According to the Governor's office, "The Commission develops and enforces statewide fire service standards and provides education and assistance to the industry."

James Mallinger serves as the fire chief for Cedar Park and also teaches at Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service and Austin Community College. With nearly three decades with the City of Cedar Park, Mallinger has held various positions from firefighter to city emergency management coordinator. He holds multiple certifications and degrees in fire service and public administration.

John Ortega, deputy chief at the Bexar County Fire Marshal’s Office, is engaged with several fire and police associations. His educational background includes degrees in criminology, criminal justice, and forensic science. Ortega is noted to be a "member of the International Association of Arson Investigators" among other professional groups.

Sue De Villez, now retired, is involved with numerous garden clubs and has been active with both the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America. De Villez has a background in nursing from Indiana University and is described as "a life member of the South Atlantic Region of National Garden Clubs."

Paul Hamilton, formerly of the Hereford Volunteer Fire Department, now retired, also served as a city commissioner and worked in education. His decorated career spans 26 years, and he continues to be involved as a volunteer firefighter. Hamilton was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps.

Brandon Wade leads the Corpus Christi Fire Department and retired from the Austin Fire Department. He carries an extensive firefighting background, being a part of "the International Association of Fire Chiefs" and various firefighter associations.

Finally, Michael Glynn from the Fort Worth Fire Department will chair the Commission. His current roles include teaching and vice-presidential duties at the International Association of Fire Fighters. Glynn also contributes as a board member for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

"Our task is critical, and these individuals bring a wealth of experience necessary to fulfill our mission," said Glynn. All pending appointments are subject to approval by the Senate.