Aviles named St Augustine Fire Chief

Historic City News has learned that City Manager John Regan has appointed Carlos Aviles to be Fire Chief of the City of St Augustine effective September 1st.

Aviles, who will replace retiring Fire Chief James C Costeira, joined the department in May 2005. He was promoted to the position of Fire Lieutenant in 2010. While obtaining an Associate of Arts degree in Fire Service from Keiser University in 2013, Aviles was promoted to Fire Captain.

“It takes a special person be to a St. Augustine firefighter and a special person to lead that department,” Regan told local reporters. “Because of his strong leadership skills and his commitment to professionalism and his commitment to excellence, I am confident Carlos will serve the department and our city well.”

Aviles is a native of the Orlando area, and active in the US Army Reserve. He had a distinguished career in the US Army Military Police that included tours in both Afghanistan and Iraq.

Since joining the fire department, Aviles has obtained a number of certifications including HAZMAT Technician, Live Fire Instructor, and Marine Rescue Technician. He was responsible for completing applications for FEMA and Firehouse Public Safety Grants that secured over $55,000 in additional funding for the department.

“It is my fundamental belief that our firefighters should be at their best when our community is at their worst”, said Aviles. “As Fire Chief, I will set this example and motivate others to follow suit.”