Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach Fire Chief Dennis Buchanan will retire Dec. 11, 2026, after more than three decades with the Long Beach Fire Department, the city announced.

Buchanan has led the department since February 2023, overseeing about 790 sworn and civilian employees across five bureaus and nine divisions. The department has an annual operating budget of about $200 million.

"His leadership has left our Fire Department stronger, more prepared and more connected to the community it serves," City Manager Tom Modica said, adding that the city was grateful for Buchanan's service.

Buchanan joined the department in 1993 and held roles including firefighter, paramedic, fire captain, battalion chief, assistant chief of support services and deputy chief. Appointed chief in 2023, he became the city's first Black/Latinx Fire Chief, according to the announcement.

During his tenure as chief, the department introduced a Peak Load Paramedic Ambulance Unit to increase ambulance resources during the busiest hours, which the city said reduced response times. The department also opened new stations at Fire Stations 20 and 9 and completed major renovations and modernization at six other stations.

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The city said Buchanan expanded recruitment programs and partnerships with local educational institutions. Those efforts contributed to the department's largest Fire Academy class, with 50 recruits in 2025. He also oversaw new equipment, health-clinician services and updates to the department's physical wellness program, and established its Professional Standards Division.

Buchanan said the department's accomplishments reflected the work of its employees and support from city partners. His final day will coincide with the graduation of the 2026A Fire Academy.

The city manager will conduct a national search for Buchanan's successor, with an announcement expected in early 2027, the city said.

Buchanan holds a bachelor's degree in vocational education from California State University, Long Beach. He recently served as president of Friends of Long Beach Firefighters, a nonprofit supporting community-based fire-service initiatives. In retirement, he plans to volunteer at national and state parks, take part in missionary work in Central and South America, and pursue hobbies including surfing, backpacking, gardening and international travel.

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