Brian Regan Sworn In As Redondo Beach's New Fire Chief

REDONDO BEACH, CA — Brian Regan was sworn in as Redondo Beach's new fire chief Tuesday night, capping a 14-year rise through the department and becoming its first chief promoted from within in more than three decades, according to City Manager Mike Witzansky.

Regan took the oath of office during Tuesday's City Council meeting after a farewell ceremony for outgoing Fire Chief Pat Butler, who received the Key to the City from Mayor James Light in recognition of his four years of service.

Subscribe

Witzansky said Regan was selected through a competitive process involving four division chiefs, crediting Butler with developing a leadership team strong enough for the city to promote from within.

"Fourteen years on the job to be promoted to chief is somewhat unusual," Witzansky said, praising Regan's maturity, decision-making and "quiet confidence."

Regan maintains his paramedic certification and has served as fire marshal, according to Witzansky. He has also been heavily involved in special-event planning and emergency response coordination, including work with the Redondo Beach Police Department.

After taking the oath, Regan thanked city officials and the community for trusting him to lead the department and credited Butler with preparing him and other senior officers for greater responsibility.

"Four years ago, there was no way I would ever think of competing for this position," Regan said. "But you gave us a lot of responsibilities. You gave us the confidence."

Regan said the department will continue building on its status as a Class One fire department while moving ahead with major projects, including new fire stations funded through Measure FP. The voter-approved $93.35 million bond measure includes replacement of Fire Stations 1 and 2 as well as modernization of police facilities.

Regan, who came to Redondo Beach from New York, reflected on the career that brought him to the department 14 years ago.

"I feel like I haven't been at work for one day," Regan said. "I still pinch myself when I go walk by the Esplanade and realize how fortunate I am to have this job."

He said he intended to savor the moment before turning his attention to the work ahead.

"I'm going to cherish this moment because it's something I'll never forget for the rest of my life," Regan said. "But I'm looking forward to getting to work tomorrow morning."