Fire Chief Mike Arnold retires

Historic City News has learned that the retirement of Fire Chief Mike Arnold is bringing to a close a 30-year career with the St Augustine Fire Department; concluding with nearly seven years as fire chief.

During his watch, Arnold is credited with significant equipment upgrades; from new fire trucks to the safety equipment used by firefighters themselves, and a dramatic increase in training to keep firefighters safe as they perform their duties in the most dangerous situations.

“So much has changed during the three decades I have served St Augustine as a firefighter, and yet one thing has not changed at all; and that is the department’s unwavering commitment to keeping our community safe,” Arnold told local news reporters. “It has been my honor to serve alongside and then to lead these dedicated men and women who, day-in and day-out, give their all to protect our community.”

The St Augustine Fire Department, already recognized for its high level of service, has been taken to an even higher level under Chief Arnold’s leadership, according to praise offered by City Manager, John Regan.

“Mike’s contributions to interagency work with St Johns County Fire Rescue have been invaluable in so many areas; but, most recently, in shepherding through the very important interagency communications system,” Regan said in an announcement to senior staff members Friday. “Without a doubt, our community owes much to Mike and his presence on our team will be greatly missed.”