Billings, Champaign Fire Departments Appoint New Chiefs

The City of Billings has appointed Matt Hoppel as the new Fire Chief, effective immediately, following a thorough internal selection process. Hoppel brings over three decades of public safety experience to the role, having served in multiple positions within the Billings Fire Department since 1998, and is recognized for his leadership in fire service training and his involvement with national fire organizations. Meanwhile, the City of Champaign has named Tyler Funk as Interim Fire Chief starting July 14, 2025, after he came out of retirement; Funk retired in 2023 after a 26-year career with the Champaign Fire Department. Funk, a respected leader who served in various roles including Acting Fire Chief during the COVID-19 emergency and Fire Marshal, succeeds Chief Andy Quarnstrom, who retired to take a village administrator position. Both appointments highlight a reliance on experienced leaders familiar with their respective departments to ensure smooth transitions during periods of change. Recruitment for a permanent Fire Chief in Champaign will begin later this summer.