LV names new fire chief

By MARTHA McCLAIN
Special to the PRESS

January 29, 2015

Julio Olguin has been named to fill the position of Laguna Vista fire chief.

A police officer in the Town for more than 14 years, Olguin is a certified fireman and has served as the Interim Fire Chief for the Laguna Vista Volunteer Fire Department since the departure of Robert McGinnis who served as both police and fire chief.

McGinnis resigned his positions in September to accept another the position of police chief and emergency management coordinator in the City of Hamilton. Anthony Alan David, a retired Texas Ranger, was named as his replacement, effective Nov. 17, 2014. Olguin served as interim police chief after McGinnis’ departure, and will continue his working as a police officer.

“Olguin has been an active member of the fire department since 2010,” according to City Manager Rolando Vela who selected the officer for the position. “Since becoming a member, he’s worked his way up in ranks from firefighter to captain through hard work and dedication,” Vela said. In 2011, Olguin was named Firefighter of the year.

Prior to the selection, the Town advertised in the Port Isabel Press and on the Town’s website, the city manager said.

Olguin had served as the Laguna Vista Fire Department training coordinator. “He holds his Firefighter Instructor I Certification. He also has Firefighter I and II Certifications and is a member of the State Fireman’s and Fire Marshalls’ Association,” Vela said.

The selection was primarily based on the officer’s demonstrated skills. “His greatest qualifications are his background as a firefighter, officer and as a trainer,” according to Vela.

The appointment became effective the second week in January.

“Fire Chief Olguin shares my philosophy of making the Laguna Vista Volunteer Fire Department the best volunteer department,” Vela said.

“He will be leading efforts to focus on recruitment and training while aggressively pursuing grants for training and equipment. We want to focus on getting more (citizens) to join the fire department, get them adequately trained and focus our efforts on securing additional equipment,” he added.

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