Palm Springs Fire Chief Paul Alvarado announced his retirement Friday effective Nov. 2 after 35 years in fire service.
“Chief Alvarado has dedicated 35 years of his life to protecting communities, and we are grateful for his outstanding leadership and service to Palm Springs,” City Manager Scott Stiles said in a statement.
Alvarado served as chief for the past three and a half years. City officials said he has overseen significant improvements in staffing, emergency response capabilities and long-term planning and led the department through emergencies, including Tropical Storm Hilary in 2023 and the domestic terrorist vehicle bombing of the American Reproductive Centers fertility clinic in 2025.
During his time in Palm Springs, he helped secure approval for a new Fire Station 1, acquired two fire engines with four additional engines and a ladder truck, improved its Insurance Services Office Public Protection classification from class three to class two, and expanded fire prevention and community risk reduction efforts.
Prior to joining the city’s fire department, he served with the Long Beach Fire Department.
“Serving as fire chief of Palm Springs has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career, and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together,” Alvarado said in a statement. “Every accomplishment reflects the dedication and professionalism of the men and women who serve this community every day. It has been an extraordinary honor to lead this department, and I leave with tremendous gratitude for the support of the City Council, City Manager, our employees and the Palm Springs community.”
The reason for his departure was not immediately known.
The city was expected to announce an acting fire chief within the next week, Stiles said.