City of Pearland Appoints Lewis Harris as Pearland Fire Chief

The City of Pearland is proud to announce the appointment of Lewis Harris as Fire Chief, following a distinguished 28-year career with the Tucson Fire Department. Chief Harris was sworn in on Tuesday, July 6.   “The City of Pearland is gaining a proven, mission-driven leader,” said City Manager Trent Epperson. “His experience shows he knows how to balance daily operations, planning, and people — all the things that keep a fire department strong.”  As Fire Chief, Chief Harris will oversee, lead, and manage the operations of the Pearland Fire Department, which provides emergency medical services, fire suppression and fire prevention services. Harris will be responsible for evaluating departmental operations and developing long-term plans for equipment, facilities, and personnel, while coordinating with City staff and departments. His leadership will support the continued growth, readiness, and resilience of Pearland’s fire and emergency services.  Previously, Chief Harris served in a wide range of progressively responsible roles within the Tucson Fire Department, including Firefighter/Paramedic, Captain, Training Officer, Technical Rescue Team Captain, Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief of the Training Division, Assistant Chief of the Administrative and Personnel Services Bureau, and Assistant Fire Chief over the Essential Services Division. His background includes 18 years of operational experience, extensive work in training and professional development, and significant expertise in budget development and fiscal management for a major metropolitan fire department.  “I am honored to join the Pearland community and to serve alongside its dedicated fire service professionals,” said Chief Harris. “Throughout my career, I have been committed to developing people, strengthening organizations, and ensuring safe, effective service delivery. I look forward to supporting the department’s continued growth and contributing to a culture of excellence.”  In addition to his leadership within the fire service, Chief Harris is an adjunct instructor at Pima Community College, where he helps prepare future fire service professionals. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arizona, is a graduate of Arizona State University’s Certified Public Manager program and is a graduate of the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association Chief Executive Officer Program.  Chief Harris added, “My goal is to build on the strong foundation already in place and to serve Pearland with integrity, professionalism, and a deep respect for the people and resources entrusted to our care.”