Port Hope’s Jason Williams has been named 2026 Fire Chief of the Year by the Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association.
Chief Williams received the honour during a ceremony on Wednesday night (May 27) at the association’s 69th annual symposium training and education symposium at Casino Rama in Orillia, recognizing his distinguished career in public safety, fire prevention, emergency management, fire investigations, and mentorship across Ontario.
“This recognition reflects the dedication, professionalism and passion of our firefighters, fire prevention staff, and community partners who work every day to keep our residents safe,” Williams said in a media release.
“Fire prevention and public education are at the heart of everything we do, and I remain committed to advancing innovative, community-focused approaches that strengthen public fire safety for today and future generations,” Williams added. ” I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the Municipality of Port Hope and proud of the collective efforts that continue to make our community safer and stronger.”
Williams joined the municipality in 2022 as director of protective services, which includes the building and municipal law enforcement divisions and is responsible for emergency management for the municipality, and was appointed fire chief in 2024. He now serves in a dual role as fire chief and director of fire and emergency services.
Prior to joining the municipality, Williams served with the Office of the Fire Marshal as a fire investigator and supervisor who supported municipal fire departments throughout Ontario, and also taught at the Ontario Fire College, Seneca College, and the Ontario Ministry of Labour.
Under Williams’ leadership, Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services has implemented a number of initiatives to strengthen fire prevention and response, including distributing nearly 200 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to local residents through Safe Community Project Zero and enhancing firefighter health and safety through station upgrades, contamination reduction practices, and advanced equipment such as thermal imaging and LUNAR technology.
Williams also led the launch of the fire suppression day crew program to improve daytime response and expand community outreach, and fostered partnerships to support public education, including the acquisition of interactive fire safety tools for community events. He is now leading the development of a wildland fire management plan to improve wildfire preparedness and protect natural areas such as the Ganaraska Forest.
“This well-deserved recognition reflects his outstanding leadership, dedication to public safety, and commitment to innovation in fire prevention and emergency services,” said Port Hope mayor Olena Hankivsky on behalf of council and the community. “We are proud to have Chief Williams leading a team that works tirelessly to keep Port Hope safe.”
