LFD Chief Batalis Presented Retirement Flag and Badge

Today, we proudly honored City of Lawrence Fire Department Chief Dino Batalis as he was presented with his retirement flag and badge. 

Chief Batalis has dedicated an impressive 35 years of service to Lawrence, leaving an indelible mark on our community.

As Chief Batalis embarks on a well-deserved retirement, we express our deepest gratitude for his service and wish him and his family all the best in the next chapter. 

Thank you, Chief!

Dino Batalis joined LFD in 1988 as a volunteer firefighter and was hired on as a professional firefighter in 1991. Dino was promoted to Lieutenant in 1998 before becoming a Battalion Chief. In 2010, he held dual roles as Battalion Chief and Deputy Chief until 2011 when he became Chief under Mayor Ricketts. Once Mayor Collier was elected, Dino was appointed Chief and has proudly served the City of Lawrence under this role since. Dino was also a part of the 9/11 Run that the Lawrence Fire Department organized after the attacks. Over 50 firefighters and police officers ran to New York within 5 days on behalf of the families of the 9/11 victims. They were able to raise over $300,000 for those families. 

When he started as a volunteer, Dino founded the Needy Family Fund. Although the name has since been changed to the Firefighters Family Assistance Fund, the program is still running and more successful than ever. In the beginning, the fund was made to help families during the holidays; however, it has grown to be much more. It is now year round and provides families with groceries, beds, gas and sometimes utility bills.

Dino is the first in his family to join the fire service, as most of his family background stems from law enforcement. He has certifications in Instructor II/III, Fire Officer III, EMT, Public Safety Diver and EVOC Instructor. When he’s not enjoying time with his wife of 42 years, Dino enjoys golf, traveling, yard work and cruises. He also has 2 adult daughters that he is incredibly proud of.