KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The City of Keene will soon begin the search for a new fire chief as Jason Martin announced plans to retire this fall after spending nearly three decades with the Keene Fire Department.

Martin’s retirement takes effect Sept. 1, ending a 28-year career that began in 1998 when he joined the department as a firefighter and EMT. Over the years, he advanced through the ranks, becoming a lieutenant in 2006, a captain in 2014 and deputy fire chief in 2023 before being selected as the department’s chief in August 2024.

City officials credited Martin with helping guide the department through a period of planning and organizational development. During his tenure as chief, the department completed its first comprehensive strategic plan, which city leaders said established long-term goals for operations, staffing and emergency response services.

City Manager Elizabeth Ferland praised Martin’s leadership and commitment to the community, noting that the city relied heavily on his experience and guidance during his time leading the department.

In announcing his retirement, Martin reflected on his years with the department, saying his progression through every rank gave him a deep appreciation for the firefighters, officers and staff he worked alongside throughout his career. He also thanked the City of Keene for the opportunity to serve and lead the organization.

The city said the process of selecting Martin’s successor will begin in the coming months. Ferland and the Human Resources Department plan to conduct an internal recruitment process to identify the next leader of the Keene Fire Department.

Martin’s final day on the job is scheduled for Sept. 1.