Few people embody the spirit of Black Mountain like Fire Chief Coffey, whose roots in emergency services stretch back to his teenage years as a volunteer firefighter. Driven initially by the classic teenage motivation of escaping high school classes during fire calls, his career evolved through paramedic training, law enforcement, and ultimately to his current leadership role serving the Swannanoa Valley.

What keeps this dedicated public servant in our community? "The people," he answers without hesitation. "There's a strong sense of pride and care in this valley. Folks are welcoming, they step up for one another." Beyond his professional duties, Chief Coffey reveals the personal side of his life—raising three children, caring for three German Shepherds, and even maintaining beehives at home (a surprisingly common hobby among firefighters).

The conversation explores how Black Mountain's fire service integrates deeply into community life—from their small museum housing the original 1926 fire truck to participation in beloved events like Sourwood Festival and Holly Jolly. Chief Coffey offers insights on what makes our town special, recommending Highway 9's scenic overlooks where visitors can appreciate how perfectly Black Mountain balances growth while preserving its small-town character. We discover his morning ritual at Lake Tomahawk—"the best view in the valley"—and hear his humble reflection on the department's heroic Hurricane Helene response. Join us for this heartfelt conversation that reveals the human connections behind emergency services and celebrates the unique magic of the Swannanoa Valley.

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