Fairfield Names a New Fire Chief: Fairfield Native Tony Velasquez

When 30-year veteran Fairfield Fire Chief Vince Webster retires on April 2, he will be succeeded by Anthony (Tony) Velasquez, the department announced Tuesday.

Here's a release from the City of Fairfield. 

“I’m very grateful for the privilege of serving here as Fairfield’s Fire Chief since 2008. I proudly pass the torch to Chief Tony Velasquez with the confidence that he’ll provide great leadership. I wish him, and the City, the best as they move forward,” expressed Chief Vince Webster.

Tony is a Battalion Chief with the Fairfield Fire Department.  He began his service with the Fairfield Fire Department in 1989 as a volunteer. He was hired full-time in 1992. Tony has served as a Firefighter, Engineer Paramedic, Captain, and Battalion Chief.

“I am pleased to be able to promote Tony to lead the Fire Department and to become a key member of the City’s executive management team. He brings extensive experience with the Department and has a strong educational background. Tony is also committed to the profession. I am confident he is up to the task,” stated Sean Quinn, City Manager of Fairfield.

Tony is a state certified Paramedic, a Master Instructor for California State Fire Training, has a California Chief Officer Certification, and just completed his first year of the Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy. He has an Associate of Science degree in Fire Science from Solano Community College, a Bachelor’s degree in Human Relations, and a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership.

“I am very excited about becoming the new Fire Chief for the City of Fairfield Fire Department. I plan to build on the great things that Fire Chief Vince Webster has done for our Department, but more importantly what Chief Webster has done in the community,” said Fire Chief Tony Velasquez. “The Fairfield Fire Department’s biggest strength comes from the members in the Department.”

Tony was born in Fairfield and graduated from Fairfield High School. He is a former coach and board member of Fairfield Atlantic Little League, and a former coach of the Fairfield Youth Soccer League.

Prior to coming to work for the Fairfield Fire Department, Tony worked for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Solano Garbage Company, and Medic Ambulance.