City of Branson Names New Fire Chief

The City of Branson has announced the selection of Chris Zaremba as the next Chief of Branson Fire Rescue.

Zaremba will take over in September for Charlie Huston, who has been the Interim Chief since the retirement of longtime Chief Ted Martin in April. 

Zaremba comes from Illinois where he spent over 25 years with the Champaign Fire Department, where he served many roles before being appointed as one of the department's Deputy Chiefs earlier this year. 

The full release from the City of Branson is below:

The City of Branson is proud to announce Chris Zaremba as the next Chief of Branson Fire Rescue. A respected fire service leader with more than 25 years of experience, Zaremba will officially begin serving the Branson community in September. 

Zaremba has spent his career protecting communities, developing firefighters and building strong teams. He began as a volunteer firefighter before joining the Champaign Fire Department in Illinois in 1999. Since then, he has risen through the ranks and currently serves as a Deputy Chief, leading personnel and emergency operations while helping oversee department resources and planning. 

“Chief Zaremba brings the experience, character and dedication needed to lead Branson Fire Rescue,” Mayor Larry Milton said. “Public safety is one of our highest priorities, and we are confident he will continue the department’s strong tradition of serving our residents, businesses and visitors with professionalism and care.” 

Throughout his career, Zaremba has placed a strong emphasis on training, mentorship and professional development. He previously led training programs for the Champaign Fire Department and served as an instructor with the Illinois Fire Service Institute, helping prepare firefighters and future fire officers for the challenges of the profession. 

He also spent 17 years on the executive board of Champaign Firefighters Local 1260, including 12 years as president. That experience allowed him to advocate for firefighters while building relationships and working collaboratively to strengthen the organization. 

“On behalf of the Branson Professional Firefighters Shop of IAFF Local 152, we welcome Fire Chief Chris Zaremba to the City of Branson and Branson Fire Rescue!” said Nate Jones, Shop Steward for Branson Professional Firefighters, Local 152. “We look forward to getting to know him, his family, and working with him as we move into the next chapter of our Fire Department.” 

“Chris brings more than an impressive record of service. He brings a genuine understanding of people,” City Administrator Cathy Stepp said. “He has led emergency operations, developed firefighters, managed complex department responsibilities and represented his fellow firefighters. That well-rounded experience, along with his collaborative approach, makes him the right leader for Branson Fire Rescue and our community.” 

For Zaremba, joining Branson Fire Rescue brings together the experiences and relationships that have shaped his career while beginning a new chapter of service in the Branson community. 

“Being selected to serve as Fire Chief of Branson Fire Rescue is both a tremendous honor and a privilege,” Zaremba said. “I look forward to leading such a dedicated group of professionals while serving the unique and vibrant Branson community with integrity, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.” 

Zaremba holds degrees in fire science and political science and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration. 

As Fire Chief, Zaremba will lead the personnel and operations of Branson Fire Rescue while working alongside firefighters, City leadership, regional partners and the community to protect Branson and prepare the department for the future.