Michael Garcia Appointed New Fire Chief Of Laguna Beach

LAGUNA BEACH, CA – Michael Garcia has been appointed as the next Fire Chief for the City of Laguna Beach, City Manager John Pietig announced. Michael Garcia has over 32 years of experience in the Fire Service, with 28 years with the Long Beach Fire Department, according to a City of Laguna Beach press release.

He has 20 years of supervisory and management experience, with over eight years as a member of the Long Beach Fire Department Command Staff, holding positions of Assistant Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, and for a period as the Acting Fire Chief. Garcia was selected from a pool of 37 applicants, the press release said.

“I am very pleased that we can bring a Fire Chief to Laguna Beach with such extensive experience,”
Pietig said in a statement. “I look forward to Chief Garcia’s leadership in developing plans to enhance the
department and prepare it for the future.”

Garcia holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Education from California State University, Long Beach. His background includes expertise in the areas of fire operations, administration, fire prevention, emergency preparedness, staff training, and community relations, the press release said. Mike lives with his wife and their three children.

“I am honored in being selected to lead the Laguna Beach Fire Department, and I am humbled in becoming a part of such a great City Team. I couldn’t ask for a better group of caring professionals, and I look forward to working with them as we plan for the future while continuing to provide excellent and responsive service to the community” Garcia said in a statement.

Garcia will assume his duties on April 30, 2018, with a salary of $192,000 a year.

Photo courtesy of the City of Laguna Beach