The Howe City Council selected Gary Estep as its new fire chief during a special meeting on Saturday, May 30, 2026, to fill the vacancy left by former Chief Robert Maniet.
TL;DR
- Gary Estep appointed Howe fire chief by City Council
- Formerly Fire Chief and General Manager of Bexar County Emergency Services District 5
- Began July after city council approval at special May 30 meeting
- Six years service as aircraft electrician and combat medic in the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division
Selection process
Chief Robert Maniet's departure created a vacancy in the city's public safety leadership. The City Council called a special meeting on Saturday, May 30, 2026, to review the candidate and approve the hire. Council members voted to approve Estep's appointment during the session.
Especiali is expected to begin his duties with the city in July, allowing time for transition and onboarding.
Professional background
According to city staff, Estep most recently served as Fire Chief and General Manager of Bexar County Emergency Services District 5, a department serving communities in southwest Bexar County. His dual role combined operational fire service leadership with administrative management responsibilities across the district.
Prior to entering the fire service, Estep served six years in the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division as an aircraft electrician and combat medic. His military service gave him specialized capabilities in emergency response and aviation systems maintenance before transitioning to civilian fire and emergency management.
Previous leadership
Estep replaces Chief Robert Maniet, who departed Howe earlier in the year. The position has been vacant since Maniet's resignation, and the city's council worked on finding a replacement with appropriate fire service and emergency management experience.
References
KTEN. (2026). City of Howe hires new fire chief. Retrieved June 4, 2026 from https://www.kten.com/news/city-of-howe-hires-new-fire-chief/article_56dcce8a-2817-4580-b381-d77db04c9adc.html
