Hawaii County has named six candidates to become its next fire chief, a neutral but closely watched step for the Big Island's fire service.

• The field includes local Hawaii Fire Department leaders, among them a battalion chief and the current temporary fire chief, Daniel Bukubag.
• Retired Hawaii fire captains are also in the running, giving the county experienced homegrown options.
• Two candidates come from California fire departments, in Ventura County and Rancho Santa Fe, bringing mainland wildfire experience.
• The Hawaii County Fire Commission will interview all six next Thursday.

Outlook: Three finalists will be named the following Friday, with the commission choosing the permanent chief from that shortlist.