SLO fire chief to resign after 3 years with city

The San Luis Obispo City Fire Department is looking for a new fire chief.

After three years of service, fire Chief Todd Tuggle is resigning from his position, according to a city news release.

“It has been my honor serving the community of San Luis Obispo,” Tuggle said in the release. “I am committed to ensuring continuity in command to maintain the high level of service our community expects.”

His final day on the job is Jan. 4.

“He resigned to pursue other opportunities in the new year,” city spokesperson Whitney Szentesi said in a statement to The Tribune.

Tuggle launched the city’s first mobile crisis unit, supported the city’s implementation of the new fire hazard severity zone maps and led long-term planning for Fire Station 5, the city said.

The San Luis Obispo City Council appointed the Paso Robles Fire Department deputy chief Randall Harris to serve as the interim fire chief at a meeting on Tuesday.

Harris will start the job on Jan. 5 for a $120.20 per hour with no additional benefits, according to city documents.

He is set to retire from his position at the Paso Robles Fire Department on Dec. 20.

“We are grateful for Todd’s leadership and many contributions to our community,” city manager Whitney McDonald said in the release. “We look forward to working with Randall to support our Fire Department in continuing to provide the high level of service our community has been experiencing for many years.”

Soon, the city will launch a national search to find a new fire chief.

This story was originally published December 16, 2025 at 9:26 AM.