UKIAH, CA., 10/28/26 – The City of Ukiah and the Ukiah Valley Fire Protection District have appointed Justin Buckingham as fire chief of the Ukiah Valley Fire Authority, according to a press release issued Tuesday.
Buckingham has been serving as acting fire chief since July 27. As fire chief, he will oversee fire protection, emergency medical response, rescue operations and other emergency services provided by the Ukiah Valley Fire Authority, which serves the city and surrounding communities.
The previous fire chief, Doug Hutchison, served for seven years before leaving.
In the press release, Buckingham said the department’s greatest strength is its team.
“My focus is on supporting our people, strengthening the trust we’ve built with our communities and continuing to provide the exceptional service they deserve,” he said.
Buckingham comes with 28 years of fire service experience, 17 of those in Ukiah. He holds a bachelor’s degree in fire administration, is a licensed paramedic and has training in hazardous materials response, technical rescue and swiftwater rescue.
Buckingham also serves as the lead fire investigator for the Ukiah Valley Fire Authority.
“Over the past three months, Justin has demonstrated the leadership, professionalism and sound judgment needed to guide our fire service into the future,” City Manager Sage Sangiacomo said in the press release.
Buckingham will be sworn in during a ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 5 p.m. in the Ukiah City Council Chambers, 300 Seminary Ave. The public is invited to attend.