HFR Asst. Fire Chief Vorderstrasse takes over Fire Chief position

HASTINGS, Neb. – The newest Hastings Fire and Rescue Fire Chief is being promoted from within. 

Former HFR Assistant Fire Chief Troy Vorderstrasse has been appointed the department's new chief, with the approval of the Hastings City Council. 

The Fire Chief position has been vacant since Sept. 2024, when former chief Brad Starling abruptly resigned, citing conflict between the city council and the fire department. 

Vorderstrasse has been with Hastings Fire and Rescue for 30 years, and was acting as Interim Fire Chief since Starling's departure. 

The city council unanimously voted 8-0 Monday night in favor of Vorderstrasse's approval. 

"I'd like to thank the Mayor and Council for their confidence and support," said Vorderstrasse. "I appreciate this opportunity, and I'm excited to serve the city as the next Fire Chief."