Imperial County Hires New Fire Chief, Assistant CEO

David Lantzer is returning to Imperial County to serve as fire chief/Office of Emergency Services (OES) Coordinator. The Imperial Valley native most recently served as the fire chief for Murrieta. 

"Mr. Lantzer started his career in Imperial Valley and went on to larger organizations outside of the county. Fortunately, at this time, he is returning home to play a role in the public safety of our citizens and we welcome him to the County Fire Family," said District 4 Supervisor and Board of Supervisors Chair Ryan E. Kelley.  

Lantzer holds an Associate of Science degree in Fire Technology, a Bachelor’s of Science Vocational Arts degree, and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. Before working for Murrieta, he served as fire chief in Holtville and Hermosa Beach.

This month, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors also promoted Deputy County Executive Officer Rebecca Terrazas-Baxter to the role of Assistant County Executive Officer (CEO).  

As Deputy CEO, Terrazas-Baxter has been responsible for “coordinating intergovernmental relationships, developing and managing special projects,” according to the county. She also serves as a planning commissioner for the City of Imperial. 

Terrazas-Baxter previously served as Imperial’s Public Information Officer and has worked for a number of lawmakers, including Senator Barbara Boxer, Congressman Juan Vargas, and Assemblyman V. Manual Perez.