Thursday, October 1, 2026
A section of Franz Street now bears the name of former Lacey Fire District 3 Chief Steve Brooks, months after the Lacey City Council approved a resolution recognizing his 20-year tenure and years of readiness in public safety.
City Manager Rick Walk reaffirmed the city’s position in a statement on Thursday, July 24. The City of Lacey acknowledged Brooks’ retirement earlier this year calling it a career defined by “outstanding leadership and dedication.”
“After 20 years of distinguished service with Lacey Fire District (3), Chief Brooks retired this January, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of commitment to public safety and regional collaboration,” Walk said.
He added that Brooks’ work went beyond emergency calls and response.
“Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly to ensure our community was not only protected but also prepared, leading efforts to enhance emergency response, building proactive programs, and strengthening regional coordination among public safety agencies," Walk said.
The Lacey City Council approved the memorial designation on Feb. 4, voting unanimously to rename Franz Street between Lacey Boulevard and Pacific Avenue SE in honor of Brooks.
Walk then confirmed the signs are in place as “a lasting tribute to honor his contributions” to the city.
Mayor Andy Ryder, who introduced the proposal, said the signage serves as a public reminder of Brooks’ work in shaping modern fire service practices in Lacey.
Brooks closed his service with the district on Dec. 31 following 12 years as fire chief and two decades overall in Lacey. During his command, Lacey Fire District 3 advanced its emergency response systems and expanded relationships with city and county partners.
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turtleman
This is a nice tribute, but the sign needs a little more thought. When I read "Chief Steve Brooks", the fire department is not the first thing that popped into my mind. Perhaps a LFD before or after the name would keep people from thinking Steve is a Native American Tribal leader.
Friday, July 25, 2025 Report this
bonaro
@ Turtleman I came here to post that exact thing. My first thought was that this was yet another example of tribal pandering. I saw the confusion because I know Steve. He is a great man.
Saturday, July 26, 2025 Report this