The City of Bakersfield has named a new chief with the Bakersfield Fire Department.

Anthony Galagaza is a 26-year veteran with the Bakersfield Fire Department and most recently served as a battalion chief. He replaces Doug Greener who has served nine years as chief. He will be retiring at the end of this month. 

Galagaza is a Bakersfield native. He graduated from Bakersfield College with an Association of Arts degree in Fire Science in 1998. He also has his Bachelor of Arts Degree with Columbia Southern University and is currently working to complete his Master’s Degree in Business Administration.

Galagaza started his career with the Bakersfield Fire Department in 1992. He has been promoted through the ranks to supervisory positions as fire engineer, fire captain, to most recently battalion chief.

In a statement from outgoing Fire Chief Douglas Greener, he congratulated Galagaza on the promotion. Chief Greener said, “I offer newly selected BFD Fire Chief Anthony Galagaza congratulations and wish him the best of luck. I have optimism for the future of our fine Fire Department and our community and will continue to hope for the safety of both. As I depart at the end of next week, I will truly miss BFD members and I thank them again for their service.”