Spring Fire Department Congratulates Harris County ESD 7 President Bob Schmanski on his “Well-Deserved” Retirement

“His impact will be felt for many years to come,” said Spring Fire Chief Scott Seifert.

After nearly a decade of public service on the Harris County Emergency Services District No. 7 board, President Bob Schmanski is announcing his retirement.

“Nine years ago, I joined this board with one goal — to leave Spring Fire Department better than I found it,” Schmanski said. “I believe we have done that and so much more.” In 2012, the Spring Fire Department was a mostly volunteer operation with a part-time duty crew on weekdays. “When I was elected, the road ahead was tough,” added Schmanski. “Not only did the Spring Fire Department need fulltime firefighters, the fire engines and stations needed major repairs or replacement.”

In less than a decade, the Spring Fire Department has hired over 100 fulltime firefighters, replaced all the fire engines, built six new fire stations, renovated two fire stations and started building a state-of-the-art training complex.

“His impact will be felt for many years to come,” said Spring Fire Chief Scott Seifert. “Working with our command staff to ensure this department has one of the best fleets and professional fire stations possible, Bob Schmanski helped our team improve everything from response times, fire suppression, training, community education, fleet, facilities, maintenance, IT and logistics.”

“It works because we have assembled the finest staff from our newest rookie all the way to the Chief,” said Schmanski. “This organization is ready for the future, and so am I. I get to retire knowing everything is in great hands. I cannot wait to see what the future holds. For the Spring Fire Department, it will include The Cotton Weaver Training Center. For me, it will include a lot of camping and fishing with my wife of 28 years.”

“A simple thank you for your service doesn’t seem like nearly enough,” concluded Seifert. “But there are nearly 200 people in this organization who are very thankful that Bob Schmanski donated his time to this department for nine years and congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement.”

“Bob’s leadership and passion for the fire service will be greatly missed,” said HCESD7 Board Vice President Melanie Gander. “But he has so well prepared this board and department for the future that we are poised to make him even prouder.”