Santa Barbara County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig has announced his retirement, effective immediately. Hartwig has served as the county’s fire chief since 2017 and has been a part of the fire department for over three decades. During his tenure, Hartwig has overseen numerous significant incidents, including wildfires and search and rescue operations. He has also been instrumental in implementing new technologies and strategies to improve the department’s response to emergencies. Hartwig’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, which has benefited from his leadership and expertise. Hartwig began his career as a firefighter in 1989 and worked his way up the ranks, serving as a fire engineer, captain, and battalion chief before being appointed as fire chief. He has been recognized for his outstanding service, including receiving the Medal of Valor for his bravery during a 1999 wildfire. Hartwig has also been a strong advocate for firefighter safety and has worked to improve the department’s safety protocols. His retirement is a significant loss for the department, but his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come. The county is expected to begin a search for Hartwig’s replacement immediately. In the meantime, an interim fire chief will be appointed to oversee the department. Hartwig’s retirement is not entirely unexpected, as he has been eligible for retirement for several years. However, his decision to retire now will likely have significant implications for the department and the community. The Santa Barbara County Fire Department is one of the largest and most respected fire departments in the state, and Hartwig’s leadership has been a key factor in its success. As the department moves forward, it will be important to find a new leader who can build on Hartwig’s legacy and continue to provide excellent service to the community. Hartwig’s retirement is a reminder that the fire department is not just an organization, but a family, and his departure will be felt deeply by his colleagues and the community. The county will likely hold a ceremony to honor Hartwig’s service and celebrate his achievements in the coming weeks. Hartwig’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of firefighters, and his impact on the department will be remembered for years to come.
Tue. Jul 22nd, 2025