[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 65 (Tuesday, April 14, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E320]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING THE SERVICE OF LEWIS BROSCHARD
______
HON. MARK DeSAULNIER
of california
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lewis
Broschard as he retires from his role as Fire Chief of the Contra Costa
County Fire Protection District.
Chief Broschard has demonstrated his steadfast commitment to
advancing the District's mission of protecting residents and promoting
public safety throughout the County. He has worked in fire service for
over 29 years, having previously served in emergency operations, fire
prevention, and executive leadership.
Chief Broschard joined the Contra Costa County Fire Protection
District in 2007. During his time with the District, he sought to
improve the organizational and operational systems in the District.
Under his leadership, the District absorbed the East Contra Costa Fire
Protection District and the Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District,
created the firefighting hand crew program, implemented a seasonal
aerial firefighting helicopter program, introduced an apparatus
replacement program, increased staffing in operations and fire
prevention, and rebuilt multiple fire stations. Furthermore, during
Chief Broschard's tenure, the regional fire dispatch center was
expanded and modernized, 911 dispatcher staffing levels were increased,
emergency ambulance operations were strengthened, and numerous health
and wellness initiatives were launched. As Fire Chief, he leads one of
the largest fire districts in the State of California.
Chief Broschard has also worked diligently to promote wildfire
prevention and to prepare our community for the future. He supported
significant wildfire mitigation projects across the county and oversaw
formation of over 40 new Firewise communities. Additionally, he has
worked to improve the District's Insurance Services Office (ISO)
rating, which reduces insurance costs for residents. Chief Broschard
has worked tirelessly to educate residents and promote community safety
while guiding the District through organizational growth and as it
addressed historic wildfire seasons.
Please join me in congratulating Chief Broschard on his well-deserved
retirement after 18 years of outstanding service to the District.
____________________