City Manager Tom Modica announced the appointment of Dennis Buchanan to Fire Chief. Buchanan most recently held the position of Deputy Chief of Support Services with the Long Beach Fire Department and has served the City in the department for over 29 years. As Chief, he will oversee approximately 545 sworn and civilian staff, providing fire and emergency response services spanning four divisions with an annual operating budget of approximately $154 million. Chief Buchanan is the first Black/Latinx Chief of the Long Beach Fire Department.

“I’m happy to announce Dennis Buchanan as the City’s next Fire Chief. Chief Buchanan is a true professional and community-oriented manager, who I know will take us to the next level of professionalism and service to our community,” said Modica. “I have confidence that Chief Buchanan will lead with distinction, fostering a strong culture of service and honor, professionalism and accountability, and diversity and inclusion in our Fire Department.”

Prior to becoming Deputy Chief, Buchanan served in many roles since joining the department in 1992: Assistant Chief of Support Services, Battalion Chief, Fire Captain, Paramedic and Firefighter. During his 18 years as Fire Captain, Buchanan spent eight years in the Port as a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) program specialist and three years educating recruits in the Fire Academy. Chief Buchanan is a graduate of California State University, Long Beach with a Bachelor of Science in Vocational Education. He recently served as the President of the Friends of Long Beach Firefighters, a local non-profit organization that supports community-based initiatives for the fire service.

“What an amazing honor it is to have been selected for the position of Fire Chief for the Long Beach Fire Department,” stated Chief Buchanan. “I am humbled by this opportunity and am thankful for the support of those that supported me through this process. The Long Beach Fire Department must reflect the diversity of our city and strive to meet the evolving needs of those we serve. We must provide opportunities to those that aspire to have careers in public safety and promote professional growth within our organization.”

Chief Buchanan is a Southern California native growing up in West Covina. He has been married to his wife, Laura, for 29 years, they have two adult children, and reside in Long Beach. He played professional soccer internationally and enjoys backpacking, surfing and camping. Chief Buchanan succeeds recently retired Chief Xavier Espino. Buchanan will start his role as Fire Chief immediately.