Phillip Garcia picked as Sonoma's fire chief

Phillip Garcia, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the fire-fighting service and who currently holds the position of fire chief in the city of Santa Ana, has been chosen as the new fire chief for the Sonoma Valley Fire and Rescue Authority.
“Phil Garcia comes to Sonoma Valley with a wealth of experience, with unsurpassed technical knowledge of fire and ambulance issues, and with a reputation as an excellent communicator and manager,” said city manager Mike Fuson in a statement.
The selection process for the new chief included advertising throughout the West Coast, the screening of applications through an executive recruiter (Bob Murray and Associates of Roseville), interviews by several panels and “extensive reference checking,” the statement said.
Garcia takes over leadership of the fire department on June 11, replacing former fire chief John Keane who retired on March 1.
Garcia said, “I take this responsibility seriously and am excited about working with the Sonoma Valley Fire and Rescue Authority.”
Garcia was born in Los Angeles and is a life-long Californian. He lives with his wife and three sons in Laguna Niguel. Garcia has a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, Long Beach. He currently serves as a team leader and assessor for the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, in which capacity he travels to cities around the country with a team of fire chiefs that certifies fire departments.
Prior to joining the Santa Ana Fire Department, Garcia served for more than 25 years with the Culver City Fire Department.
In his spare time, Garcia enjoys many activities with his family, which he characterizes as a “football family.” Garcia coached youth football for years as a line coach and defensive coordinator. The Garcias also enjoy outdoor activities, such as skiing, snowboarding and bicycling.