Napa County Hires First Fire Administrator David Shew

Napa County has appointed its first fire administrator to oversee planning, coordination and oversight of various functions within the Napa County Fire Department. David Shew, who was appointed on Oct. 30, will also assist the Board of Supervisors, help oversee the county’s contract with Cal Fire, and collaborate with Napa’s Fire Safe Councils.

Shew spent 32 years with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, including 15 years with Cal Fire's Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit. He has served as Napa County fire marshal, Napa County battalion chief, special operations chief, South Division operations chief and administrative division chief. He’s a recipient of the Cal Fire Director's Outstanding Achievement Award and the Medal of Valor.

"Becoming the first fire administrator for Napa County is an honor," Shew said. "I look forward to working closely with my new colleagues to help implement the Fire Master Plan and facilitate the delivery of vital grant funding for the citizens we serve."

"David’s extensive experience and unwavering dedication make him a valuable addition to Napa County’s leadership team,” said Napa County CEO Ryan Alsop. "He is recognized as a national thought leader in fire resiliency, and his familiarity with our community will undoubtedly serve us well as we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of our residents."

Shew will earn a salary of $208,874 a year.

Read more about his appointment here.