HOUSTON, Texas – There is a new chief in town, and he’s a familiar face to our city.
On Friday, Houston Mayor John Whitmire confirmed with KPRC 2 Investigates that Thomas (Tom) Muñoz will be the new HFD chief.
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“Chief Muñoz is a strong leader dedicated to preparing and protecting Houstonians for emergencies. I believe he is the best emergency management coordinator in the country,” said Mayor Whitmire. “He is experienced, knowledgeable, and widely respected. I have worked alongside him during the flooding in Kingwood, the derecho, Hurricane Beryl, and the winter freeze. I am confident that Chief Muñoz is the best person to lead the City’s fire department at this time.” Whitmire said.
Munoz most recently served as the City of Houston’s Office of Emergency Management Deputy Director and Emergency Coordinator, and has over 26 years of experience as a first responder, emergency manager and Coast Guard.
“Mayor Whitmire is a no-nonsense leader who has supported our firefighters since day one,” said Chief Muñoz. “I am committed to taking care of the residents of Houston, which must begin with taking care of the men and women of the Houston Fire Department. The work we do today will have a lasting impact for years to come, and I know that with this administration, we can improve the safety of all residents and future generations.”
Before working for the city of Houston, Munoz served as the Emergency Manager and Homeland Security Director for Texas City and before that, served 24 years with the Houston Fire Department as the Assistant Chief of Homeland Security and Planning.
Tom retired as Commander from the United States Coast Guard (Reserve) after 21 years of service. During his time in the United States Coast Guard, he served as the Deputy Incident Commander for the New Orleans Vessel Removal Projects, the Texas City Y Spill Liaison and most recently served as the Hurricane Maria Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer in San Juan, PR.
In 2007, he received the Captain Edward R. Williams United States Coast Guard Reserve Award for Excellence. He is also the recipient of five USCG Commendation Medals.
Tom is currently working on his Doctorate in Strategic Communication. He also holds a Master’s degree in Emergency Management and a Master’s in Homeland Security from American Military University. He received his BA in Political Science from the University of Houston.
Chief Muñoz succeeds Chief Samuel Peña and will be the department’s 37th chief since 1895, when the department became non-volunteer.
