Arcata Fire District press release:

Arcata Fire District Fire Chief Justin McDonald has announced his retirement beginning June 26, 2024.

Chief McDonald’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Arcata Fire District after three decades of dedicated service. His journey from volunteer firefighter to Fire Chief is a testament to his passion and commitment to serving the community. McDonald’s family ties to the district and his personal dedication have left an indelible mark on the organization.

“It has been a gift to be part of the fire service and this organization. I am extremely proud of the men and women of Arcata Fire District who do amazing work and serve the people of Humboldt County with both passion and compassion. The past 30 years I have spent in the fire service have transformed my life, and I have no regrets,” McDonald said.

Under his leadership, the Arcata Fire District has thrived, providing essential services to over 36,000 residents in the greater Arcata area. McDonald’s emphasis on collaboration and resource management has ensured the safety and well-being of both firefighters and the public.

“Since starting as a volunteer firefighter over 30 years ago, Justin has shown outstanding commitment and dedication to the Arcata Fire District and its citizens. He has our gratitude and appreciation for his devotion to the duties and obligations he has faithfully fulfilled,” said retired Fire Chief Dave White – who hired McDonald when he became a full-time firefighter.

Chief Justin McDonald and Assistant Chief Chris Emmons


The board’s selection of Deputy Chief Chris Emmons as the next Fire Chief speaks to McDonald’s commitment to succession planning within the organization. With almost 32 years of experience in the fire service, Emmons will undoubtedly continue McDonald’s tradition of excellence, guided by the example set by his predecessor.

As McDonald prepares to step down, his colleagues and community members reflect on his remarkable career with admiration and gratitude. His unwavering dedication and steadfast leadership have left an enduring legacy of excellence within the Arcata Fire District.

“As a member of the board of directors for the Arcata Fire District for nearly four years now, I can truly say it has been a pleasure to work with Chief McDonald. He helped shepherd the district through some fairly dark times when funding was inadequate, and the district was losing experienced firefighters to other fire agencies. He has been at the forefront of modernizing the district and preparing for a future where our community has an increased population, taller buildings and the threat of longer fire seasons. Because of the communities passing of Measure F, Chief McDonald’s dogged determination as well as his ability to work with the Arcata Professional Firefighters Local 4981 and the board, the fire district is better now than when he was made chief. Chief McDonald’s ability to manage crises big and small, as well as plan for the future even in times of budgetary uncertainty will be greatly missed.

On the upside, Chief McDonald has promoted and hired highly capable Chief Officers that will most certainly continue to serve this

community proudly,” said Arcata Fire Board Director Blaine Maynor.
Arcata Fire Board Director Nicole Johnson said, “Through decades of steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment, Chief McDonald has shaped a legacy of excellence that will continue to inspire generations of firefighters. His dedication to duty and passion for service will forever remain a beacon of strength within our department.”