Matagorda County Judge Bobby Seiferman and Commissioners announce the appointment of Mike Voorhies as the first Fire Marshal for Matagorda County.
This historic appointment marks a significant step forward in strengthening fire prevention, investigation, and emergency management capabilities across the county.
“Establishing the Fire Marshal’s Office is a major milestone for Matagorda County,”
“Mike Voorhies brings decades of leadership, technical expertise, and a lifelong commitment to public service.
“His experience will be instrumental in enhancing public safety, coordinating emergency preparedness efforts, and ensuring consistent fire code enforcement throughout our communities,” Seiferman said.
As Fire Marshal, Voorhies will oversee fire investigations, enforce fire codes and life safety standards, conduct inspections, support emergency management planning, and work closely with local fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders.
The position plays a critical role in reducing fire risk, investigating fire-related incidents, and improving overall community resilience.
Voorhies began his career in public service in 1987 when he enlisted in the United States Army, serving four years as an infantry soldier.
He transitioned to civilian service in 1991 as a police officer and became a certified Emergency Medical Technician in 1992.
In 1998, he attended the fire academy and soon began his fire service career with the Lake Worth Fire Department.
Over more than two decades with Lake Worth, Voorhies rose through the ranks to become Division Chief of Fire Prevention and Emergency Management.
He served his final 13 years there as Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Coordinator, retiring in July 2019 after a distinguished career.
In addition to his civilian service, Voorhies continued his military commitment by enlisting in the United States Air Force Reserves in 2001, serving with the 301st Fighter Wing.
An Afghanistan veteran, he retired from military service in November 2018 with more than 20 years of combined military service.
Following his retirement from Lake Worth, Voorhies joined the Fort Bend County Fire Marshal’s Office on Aug. 19, 2019, where he continued to build on his extensive experience in fire prevention and investigation.
Voorhies holds an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from Tarrant County College and maintains numerous advanced certifications through the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, including Master Arson Investigator, Master Fire Inspector, and Master Firefighter.
He is also certified as a Master Peace Officer and Instructor through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Additionally, he is a graduate of the Fire Executive Management Training program at the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas.
“I am honored to serve Matagorda County in this role,” said Voorhies.
“I look forward to working alongside our fire departments, emergency responders, and community leaders to enhance safety, preparedness, and fire prevention efforts across the county.”
The creation of the Fire Marshal’s Office reflects Matagorda County’s ongoing commitment to proactive public safety measures, coordinated emergency response, and the protection of lives and property.
