Military veteran and seasoned fire service professional takes the helm
BRUSH PRAIRIE — On Jan. 22, Clark County Fire District 3 marked a milestone as Chris Drone was sworn in as the new fire chief.
Drone succeeds Chief Scott Sorenson, who retired at the end of 2024 after many years of dedicated service. Drone, a key member of the District 3 team since 2017, brings a wealth of experience and a steadfast commitment to community safety.
Drone joined Fire District 3 as its first fire marshal, concentrating on fire prevention and injury reduction. Before his tenure at District 3, he served as a plans examiner and lead deputy fire marshal with the City of Vancouver.
A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Drone holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Washington State University and two associate degrees. Additionally, he is a licensed fire protection engineer, holds multiple certifications, and is an active member of several professional organizations.
Fire Chief Drone shared his vision for the future of the department. “Thanks to the unwavering support of our community, I look forward to expanding District 3’s capabilities and ensuring we continue to provide high-quality emergency services,” he said. “It’s an honor to lead this exceptional organization, and I am eager to build on our foundation of service and safety.”
For more information about Fire District 3, visit www.fire3.org or contact the district at (360) 892-2331.
Clark County Fire District 3 provides fire and life safety services to over 46,000 people in east Clark County, including the City of Battle Ground. Fifty-seven full-time and 10 volunteer emergency personnel responded to 5,175 calls in 2023. Fire District 3 operates under a balanced budget and has a long history of passing its financial and accountability audits by the state. More information on Fire District 3 can be found at www.fire3.org.
Also read:
- The I-5 Bridge is vulnerable to collapse, but apparently not that vulnerable
State leaders and Vancouver’s mayor warn about bridge safety, but insist it’s safe enough for daily use as they focus on moving forward with a costly replacement including light rail—despite decades of public resistance. - Vancouver Police seek assistance from the public to locate hit and run driver
A woman was injured in a crosswalk by a van whose driver briefly helped before fleeing; Vancouver Police ask for help locating the suspect and vehicle. - Vancouver City Council to host community forum on belonging March 23
Residents are invited to join Vancouver City Council’s community forum to discuss personal experiences, barriers, and new ideas for improving local sense of belonging. - 60th Annual Hazel Dell Parade of Bands returns this May
Twelve retired local band directors will be featured as Grand Marshals when the Hazel Dell Parade of Bands celebrates its 60th year with 120 entries and thousands of spectators. - Opinion: ‘This is not the best and most efficient use of the taxpayers’ funds’
Ken Vance critiques the announced $14.4 billion I-5 Bridge replacement, questioning funding gaps, the insistence on light rail, unaddressed congestion, and transparency from state officials. - Cost for IBR’s total project ‘most likely’ to be $14.4 billion
Washington’s governor committed to a light rail bridge across the Columbia River, prioritizing the $7.65 billion initial phase while sidestepping the full project’s $14.4 billion price tag. - Natural gas leak forces evacuation in restricted area in Vancouver
Crews closed multiple streets and evacuated about 20 Vancouver homes after a gas line was damaged by workers. C-TRAN provided a bus to shelter residents during the incident.
