 | | | David Winnacker Photo Sora O'Doherty | | | | | | After serving as Fire Chief of the Moraga Orinda Fire District for seven years, David Winnacker has announced that he is retiring to "pursue opportunities in the private sector." The chief noted that his retirement comes after 21 years in uniform. He will continue to serve until the end of the year, hopefully enabling some shared time with a new chief to allow for a seamless transition.
In approving its annual budget on June 19, the board added a deputy fire chief position to continue increased engagement in state and regional issues associated with fire/rescue operations, wildfire risk reduction and interoperability.
In his resignation letter, presented to the MOFD Board at the end of May, Winnacker said that he was very proud "of the steps we have taken to bring MOFD into a position of regional and statewide leadership in a number of areas. Among other achievements, it is worth noting the work done by the Fire District, our public agency partners, and the community to develop and implement a comprehensive approach to wildfire risk reduction."
He continued, "Leading the Fire District has been an incredibly rewarding endeavor, and I have great pride in the high standards to which our members hold themselves. The firefighters who answer the call night and day are committed to our community, and the long tradition of providing the highest level of service MOFD represents. It is of the highest importance that this commitment is not overlooked or allowed to languish as the District expands into other areas of service delivery."
The outgoing chief also identified priorities to ensure a smooth transition, including professional development of key district staff, progress toward the remodel of Station 45, completion of Standards of Cover study, substantial completion of the Tunnel East Bay Hills Fuel Break, enhancement of MOFD's prescribed fire program to ensure long-term success, completion of ongoing discussions with large landowning entities within the fire district and completion of labor negotiations. |
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA