Columbia County is pleased to announce that Chief Jeremy Wallen, recently promoted to Deputy Chief, is serving as Interim Fire Chief, and Andy Leanza, Deputy EMA Director, is serving as Interim EMA Director for the county.

Chief Wallen has been with the Columbia County Fire Department for 23 years previously serving in the capacity of Administration Chief. He is a Georgia Firefighter, EMT and Peace Officer. Chief Wallen holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Augusta University.

Andy Leanza is a graduate of the Clayton County Regional Law Enforcement Academy and holds a State of Georgia Advanced Level Emergency Management Certification. Throughout his career, Andy has committed himself to diversified training in all areas of emergency management and is now a GEMA academy instructor. Prior to working for Columbia County, Andy was employed by GEMA as the Area 5 Field Coordinator serving Columbia County and twenty three others in the region. Prior to GEMA, Andy served as the EMA Director for Montgomery County where he received the Certificate of Distinguished Service from the Late Sheriff O’Connor.

Andy Leanza will be reporting to the Fire Services Department under Chief Jeremy Wallen. Chief Wallen and Mr. Leanza look forward to continuing to serve the residents of Columbia County in their new roles.