Chelan County appoints Christina Pedersen as new Fire Marshal

Christina Pedersen

WENATCHEE - Chelan County has hired Christina Pedersen as the new fire marshal, bringing with her over three decades of experience in the fire service. Pedersen, who is set to begin her new role on April 15, joins the county from the Yakima County Fire Marshal's Office, where she served for nine years and rose to the position of deputy fire marshal.

Pedersen's extensive background includes her certification as a fire inspector and her current role as a lieutenant with the West Valley Fire Department, where she began as a volunteer firefighter more than 30 years ago. Her appointment follows a rigorous interview process, during which she faced a panel of regional fire chiefs who unanimously supported her selection for the position.

“We are excited to have Chris bring her 30-plus years of training and experience to Chelan County,” said Chelan County Commissioner Kevin Overbay. “She hit all the boxes for us, from her extensive work in fire and life safety inspections to her fire investigation experience on both the residential and commercial sides. We welcome her to Chelan County.

Pedersen's expertise encompasses International Building and Fire Codes, fire and life safety inspections, and fire plan reviews. As a certified fire investigator, she has conducted over 150 investigations, collaborating with local law enforcement, fire districts, and federal agencies such as the ATF and FBI. During her tenure as deputy fire marshal in Yakima County, Pedersen played a key role in developing and implementing the county's first Community Wildfire Protection Plan.

“I think Chelan County is a beautiful area,” Pedersen said. “It is similar to Yakima County in that it is an agricultural community close to the mountains and rivers. I’m really excited to be a part of Chelan County and the community.”

In her new position, Pedersen will oversee the Fire Prevention and Investigations Department and manage a team of two fire technicians. She succeeds former Fire Marshal Stephen Rinaldi, who left the role in October to pursue a similar opportunity in Colorado.