Melbourne Selects Shane Leech as Fire Chief

Veteran firefighter with 28 years of experience takes over top role in Melbourne, Florida

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The City of Melbourne, Florida has selected Shane Leech to serve as the new chief of the Melbourne Fire Department. Leech has over 28 years of experience with the department, including senior leadership roles as battalion chief, division chief, and deputy chief. He has been serving as interim fire chief since the previous chief, Chuck Bogle, retired in July 2025.

Why it matters

The fire chief position is a critical role in any community, responsible for leading the fire department and ensuring public safety. Leech's extensive experience and familiarity with the city of Melbourne make him well-suited to take on this important role.

The details

Leech has spent more than half of his 28-year career in senior leadership positions with the Melbourne Fire Department. He stepped into the interim fire chief role following the retirement of former Chief Chuck Bogle in July 2025. Leech will now assume the position of fire chief on a permanent basis.

  • Leech has served in the Melbourne Fire Department for 28 years.
  • Leech has been serving as interim fire chief since July 2025, when former Chief Chuck Bogle retired.

The players

Shane Leech

The new fire chief of the Melbourne Fire Department, with 28 years of experience and a history of senior leadership roles within the department.

Chuck Bogle

The former fire chief of the Melbourne Fire Department, who retired in July 2025.

Jenni Lamb

The city manager of Melbourne, Florida, who praised Leech's selection as the new fire chief.

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What they’re saying

“Shane Leech will be an exceptional Fire Chief for the City of Melbourne. He has extensive knowledge of the City of Melbourne and how it operates plus he is deeply committed to the citizens of Melbourne.”

— Jenni Lamb, City Manager (tapinto.net)

“It is both an honor and privilege to serve as Fire Chief for the City of Melbourne. I am committed to working alongside the dedicated men and women of this department as we continue to deliver the highest level of fire and emergency services to our community.”

— Shane Leech (tapinto.net)

The takeaway

Leech's appointment as the new fire chief of Melbourne, Florida is a testament to his extensive experience and leadership within the department. His familiarity with the city and commitment to public safety make him well-suited to take on this critical role.