LOS ANGELES—On July 15, Mayor Eric Garcetti has appointed Ralph Terrazas as the new Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Chief. The appointment will be subject to approval by Los Angeles City Council.

 

Terrazas, who is currently the chief assistant, has served the LAFD for 30 years. He spent 21 years as a firefighter and 14 years as a chief officer.

 

In a press release, Terrazas said, “I will dedicate our efforts on transforming the LAFD into a metric driven, technologically sophisticated, community-focused organization that is reflective of the communities we serve.”  He also thanked Mayor Garcetti for trusting and giving confidence to the LAFD department.

 

“Reforming the fire department is vital to the safety of our families and to my back to basics agenda,” said Mayor Garcetti. He also emphasized that after a nationwide search, he found Ralph Terrazas as the most suitable candidate for the job. Mayor Garcetti added he would be the person to â€œcut response times, improve technology, and bring reform to the Los Angeles Fire Department.”

 

Terrazas was instrumental in helping the passage of Proposition F, a $532 million bond for 19 new fire stations. He was also responsible in creating all of the aspects of the disciplinary system in the LAFD. He has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Public Administration.

 

“Chief Terrazas is the ideal leader to shape a strong future for the Los Angeles Fire Department through a rare combination of field experience and management skill,” said Delia Ibarra, President of the Los Angeles Fire Commission. 

 

Former Mayor Richard J Riordan of Los Angeles district tweeted, “Congratulations to #LA‘s new @LAFDChief, Ralph Terrazas. Wishing our new chief the best in his new role.”

 

Ralph Terrazas is said to be the first Latino chief in the LAFD’s history. Upon his confirmation by the City council, he is expected to earn $292,424.40 per year.