KANSAS FIRE MARSHAL DOUG JORGENSEN TO RETIRE AFTER A DECADE-PLUS IN THE JOB

Fire Marshal Doug Jorgensen will retire from the position in January, Gov. Laura Kelly's office announced Tuesday, making him the latest in a series of departures from executive branch agencies.

Jorgensen's term of service predates Kelly, as he has served in the position for 11 years. The office investigates the causes of fires statewide, supports hazardous material response and issues permits to fireworks retailers and other entities.

Jorgensen will officially step down from the role in January. Kelly didn't announce a replacement, and her choice for the job must be confirmed by the Kansas Senate.

"I thank Doug Jorgensen for his 43 years of public service in Kansas, including 11 years as State Fire Marshal,” Kelly said in a statement. “He has worked tirelessly to protect Kansans and property from devastating fires and to support communities in times of loss. His service has been appreciated, and we thank him for making this transition as smooth as possible.”

Jorgensen said his work with the fire marshal's office was "a very rewarding career.”

"I have thoroughly enjoyed serving three governors as the State Fire Marshal for the last eleven years, and most importantly, supporting the state fire service and helping keep the citizens of Kansas safe,” he said in a statement.

Kelly will have a host of positions to fill when the Legislature returns to session in January, a common predicament for governors entering their second term.

Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz resigned from her post earlier this month, as did her top deputy. Kansas Department of Administration Secretary DeAngela Burns-Wallace also stepped down from her job last week, saying she is expecting to return to teaching.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas Fire Marshal Doug Jorgensen to retire, Gov. Laura Kelly says