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Miguel sworn in as new fire chief
Modesto veteran brings 27 years of experience to new post

by Jeb Bing

James Miguel was sworn in as the new chief of the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department on July 8, succeeding former Fire Chief Bill Cody, who retired last October.

More than 100 well-wishers filled Fire Station No. 1, which is also the department's headquarters, as Deputy City Clerk Karen Gonzales of Pleasanton conducted the brief swearing-in ceremony. City leaders, including Mayor Jennifer Hosterman and City Manager Nelson Fialho of Pleasanton, and Mayor Marshall Kamena and City Manager Linda Barton of Livermore, welcomed the new chief and his family to loud applause.

Fialho and Barton led the six-month search for a new chief.

Miguel has 27 years of fire service experience, including eight years as fire chief for the Modesto Fire Department.

As fire chief, Miguel will oversee a 129-member department that serves both Livermore and Pleasanton and handles emergency medical response, fire suppression, rescue emergencies, hazardous materials incidents and more. The department also provides public education and emergency preparedness for local residents and businesses.