In recent years, unprecedented advances in medical care and building construction technology have resulted in significant improvements in the areas of fire protection and emergency medical services. The Villages Public Safety Department (VPSD) remains steadfast in its commitment to keep abreast of these advancements and continue to provide premier emergency services to our community. To that end, the VPSD has seen significant changes in its leadership structure, including Fire Chief Brian Twiss, who in January of 2023 assumed the responsibilities as VPSD Fire Chief, following the retirement of Chief Edmund Cain. Well known and respected in our community, Chief Twiss has been a part of the VPSD team for 14 years, where he began as a Firefighter/EMT.
Serving alongside him is a new leadership team: Chief Bobby Ramage serves as Deputy Chief of Operations, and Chief Don Neebling serves as Deputy Chief of Administration. Deputy Chief Ramage served in Marion County for 28 years until coming to work at VPSD from 2013 to 2023; he briefly returned to Marion County Fire Rescue in 2021 before returning to VPSD in March of 2023. Deputy Chief Neebling started with VPSD in 2003 as a Firefighter/Paramedic. Prior to joining VPSD, Chief Neebling served three years in Colombia County and High Springs, along with five years in Marion County Fire Rescue. Prior to accepting his current position, he served as Division Chief of Administration.
Clearly, the VPSD team has a wealth of emergency services experience. As an “All Hazards” response agency with over 150 firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians, they are trained and equipped to respond to various emergency situations, including fire, medical, and weather-related issues. Village residents can rest assured they are well protected in case of an emergency. Twenty-four/seven, the VPSD has at least 22 Advanced Life Support (ALS) capable units on the line and able to respond at a moment’s notice. Until next time, when we will cover Quick Response Vehicles (QVRs).
The VHA Editorial Board
Rich Cole
Roger Kass