VIRGINIA BEACH, Va – Two local fire chiefs have been recognized as Virginia’s Fire Chief of the Year. They are Harrisonburg Fire Chief Matt Tobia and Chief Barry Lotts of the Riverheads Volunteer Fire Department.

Governor Glenn Youngkin made the announcements Wednesdqy afternoon as part of the annual Virginia Fire Chiefs Association Expo and Symposium in Virginia Beach.

Youngkin stated that Chief Tobia is described as a selfless leader who is intelligent, compassionate, innovative and kind. He leads by example and truly cares about each and everyone in the department and community. He is never afraid to help repack hoseline, attend community events, volunteer as a counselor at the Mid-Atlantic Burn Camp, or give life advice.

Youngkin added that Chief Lotts has been an instrumental leader throughout his life providing leadership, guidance, and support to the Fire-Rescue system in Augusta County. With 44 years of service to the Augusta County community, Chief Lotts has gone above and beyond to promote fire safety and grow fire protection for the community as it stands today.