PROVINCETOWN – From the Town of Provincetown: The Town of Provincetown is pleased to announce that Town Manager Alex Morse has selected Acting Fire Chief Othaine Rance to serve as the first full-time Fire Chief of the Provincetown Fire Department, pending successful contract negotiations. The Select Board confirmed Chief Rance’s appointment at their October 26, 2026 meeting.
Rance’s selection follows a search process that included a Search Committee charged with reviewing resumes, conducting interviews, and recommending finalists. Town leadership interviewed three finalists, each of whom brought distinct strengths and experience to the process.
“Othaine’s experience and commitment to Provincetown make him the right person to lead our Fire Department into its next chapter,” said Town Manager Alex Morse. “He started as a call member and has held nearly every position in the department. Throughout the challenges of the department’s transition over the past few years, he remained committed to the Town and our members. That dedication speaks not only to his abilities as a leader, but also to his character.”
A native of Black River, Jamaica, Rance began his Provincetown fire service career as a call firefighter and rose through the department’s ranks before becoming Acting Fire Chief in March 2026. He has also worked in the Dennis and Yarmouth fire departments, bringing experience in both emergency operations and department leadership.
Rance holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of New Haven. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in accounting at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. His extensive professional training includes coursework in fire instruction, fire officer leadership, fire investigation, fire inspection, and chief fire officer responsibilities.
A Massachusetts-certified paramedic, Rance also holds instructor credentials in CPR, Advanced Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support. His combined fire service and emergency medical experience reflects his commitment to protecting lives, supporting personnel, and maintaining a department prepared to meet the community’s needs.
Beyond his professional experience, Rance has deep connections to Provincetown and considers its people and their stories his favorite part of the community. Outside of work, he enjoys soccer, tennis, music, and the arts.
“Provincetown and this department mean a great deal to me. I began as a call firefighter, and I have a deep appreciation for the generations of volunteers who built this department and the members who continue that tradition today,” said Chief Othaine Rance. “As Chief, my priority is to support all our members, honor our history of service, and build our future together. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead a department that cares so deeply about the community we serve.”
The appointment marks an important milestone in the department’s transition. Rance brings a deep understanding of its operations, its members, and the community it serves. His leadership will help support personnel, strengthen fire and emergency services, and guide the department’s continued development.
The Town thanks the Search Committee members for the time, care, and effort they devoted to reviewing resumes, conducting interviews, and advancing three strong candidates for consideration. The Town also appreciates all three finalists for their participation in the search and interview process and their interest in serving Provincetown.
More information about a public swearing-in ceremony and opportunities to meet the new Fire Chief will be shared in the coming weeks.
Copyright Pitta Media Group 2026. Any unauthorized use not permitted. All rights reserved.
