After 35 years of service to the residents of Watsonville, Fire Chief Rudy López has announced his retirement, effective December 31, 2025.
Chief López began his career in January 1990 as a Reserve Watsonville Firefighter and steadily advanced through the ranks, serving as a Firefighter, Fire Captain, Division Fire Chief, and ultimately as Fire Chief starting in July 2019. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his commitment to public safety and his great pride in serving his hometown.
Reflecting on his time with the department, Chief López said, “It has been the greatest honor of my professional life to serve my hometown of Watsonville. I am immensely proud of the dedication, professionalism, and courage demonstrated every day by our Firefighters and staff.”
During his tenure, Chief López worked to build strong relationships within the department and across the community, leading initiatives that enhanced public safety and strengthened the well-being of Watsonville residents. Looking ahead, he is excited to spend more time with his family and pursue personal endeavors.
“Chief López’s many years of service to the Watsonville community are appreciated,” said City Manager Tamara Vides. “He has spent more than three decades with the City, contributing to the work of the Fire Department and supporting our community’s emergency response efforts. We thank him for his long tenure and wish him the best in his retirement.”
A thorough and thoughtful recruitment process is underway to select the next permanent Fire Chief. In the meantime, Acting Fire Chief Corey Schaefer will continue to lead the department until a permanent replacement is named.